Figures of Speech

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•••FIGURES OF SPEECH•••
ACOLOUTHA
Substitution of reciprocal words, where each word could be substituted in the each other's contexts.
Examples:
1. John ran down the road.
2. Jane hurried to work.
1a. John hurried down the road.
2a. Jane ran to work.
👉 Acolutha is similar in form to a synonym, but it isn't a synonym, in which two words are equivalent in meaning. In acolutha, rather than
having the same meaning, the words have replaceable meaning.
Acolutha is the opposite of Anacoloutha, which is the substitution of non-reciprocal words.
Acolutha comes from the Greek word 'acolouthos', meaning 'following, attending upon'…
ACCISMUS
Feigned or pretended refusal of something which is actually desired.
Examples:
How kind, but you need it more than me.
No, I don't want it now!
👉 Accismus happens when a person refuses something that they really want. Why would they do this? A very common reason is because they are being
offered something where acceptance would break some belief or value, for example where to accept would be to take something that another person
needs more.
Refusal may happen with the intent of slighting the person offering. Thus, for example, a man offers flowers to a woman who he has annoyed. She turns
her nose up at them, even though they are her favorites.
Accismus may be genuine. It may also be false modesty. In a fuller game, the first person offers something, which the second refuses. The first insists then
the second reluctantly accepts.
A: 'Here, have one.'
B: 'No, I shouldn't.'
A: 'Go on, it's ok.'
B: 'Well, if you insist...thank you.'
ACCUMULATIO
The bringing together of a number of points into a powerful conclusion or climax.
Example
I have talked about weather patterns, the rising sea levels, and the natural patterns of high tides. Together this
means that at the next full moon where there is a force ten storm, then New York is in great danger of being
flooded.
Come in, sit down, get your pens out and let's make some magic!
👉 The word literally means the 'accumulation' of many points. This bringing together either hammers home a repeated or previous point, or may
synthesise a new meaning.
The accumulation may be through a set of sentences, phrases, words or other grammatical units. The order is not as important as the collective effect.
In storytelling, the climax is a classic point of accumulatio, where multiple tensions are resolved, meaning is created and the reader thrilled. This doesn't
happen just at the end of the story and can happen in chapters or even individual paragraphs or sentences.
In speeches, which are often a form of storytelling, the need to create memorable points makes accumulatio a powerful device.
Accumulatio is also used to describe over-use of words and repetition of sentences or phrases that say essentially the same thing.
Accumulatio is also known as Congeries and Accumulation.
ACUTEZZA
Acutezza is the use of wit or wordplay.
Examples:
Like Apollo, storms across the town. Then apologizing for the devastation.
She would! Two short planks, perhaps?
You say you have evidence, but evidently you do not.
👉 Sometimes just the cleverness of how words are used is enough to persuade. Like a lawyer in court keeping the jury entertained whilst subtly
influencing their thought processes or a poet dazzling through perfect stanzas, wit and wordplay are a form of entrancing beauty that can make up for a lot
of fallacious underlying logic.
The sharper wit may use many figures of speech and rhetorical devices in a single sentence. The meaning may not even be clear on the surface and the
purpose may just be to establish the speaker's superiority. The real effect in the end is how the listener's mind is changed across the whole intercourse.
Acutezza is Italian for sharpness or acuity.
ACYRON
AAcyron is where a word is used which is opposite to the normal word that should be applied.
Examples:
I am as sad as a sandboy.
(the actual saying is 'happy as a sandboy' - ie. the speaker isn’t sad)
Blind am I to your face,
Beauty gone to God's disgrace.
Nothing there but light and fire,
Obscuring all but my desire.
👉 Although acyron may be used unintentionally, the prime reason for its use is in highlighting what is really intended by means of the contrast principle.
When we see acyron, we may be initially confused, which grabs our attention and causes we to pause and reflect on the real meaning. Acyron is in this way
popular with poets.
ADIANOETA
Adianoeta occurs where a word or phrase is used with a clear meaning, yet a second, more subtle, meaning also exists.
Examples:
'That play was rubbish!'
'Indeed, sir. When I think of the play, I shall think of you.'
I go with your heart.
(I am giving you my love - or maybe I am stealing your affection, taking it away with me).
👉 This is a subtle and clever way of playing with words and meaning…
Adianoeta may be used in insults, where the obvious meaning is harmless, yet the second meaning (which may be denied) is insulting.
The multiple meanings possible also makes it popular with poets….
ADJUNCTION
Adjunction is the placement of the verb at the start of the phrase or sentence.
Examples:
Sings the bird as we walk on by.

Angry am I, storms across the sky.
Good, it”s, that fights the master with his dark lord.
👉 The placement of verbs, nouns and other parts of speech in sentences is a curious structure that varies across languages. For example in English one
says 'happy man' but in French they say 'homme heureux'.
Meaning is constructed as we read and we predict ahead what might be there, so is it better to know first that the subject is a man or that the descriptor is
happiness? The latter certainly seems easier as you have to store the 'happy' and later apply it to the 'man'.
Putting the verb first in a sentence gives it primacy, emphasizing it. It also is an unusual structure and so grabs attention of readers, making them pause
and think…
ASTEISMOS
Asteismos is expression of emotion, often negative emotion, in a polite way.
Examples:
Dear Sir,
You have insulted my wife and I hereby challenge you to a duel.
Your most obedient servant,
Charles Hawtrey
You know that does make me rather annoyed.
Oh dear.
👉 Emotions are catching. When we express them, particularly if they are negative or strongly expressed, then others also experience the same or
complementary emotions.
In many countries, there are strong social rules about being polite and against expressing strong emotion in public. This can result in asteismos, where
negative emotions are converted into formal expressions by which they may be acceptably portrayed.
These expressions may well include a neutralization of the infectious effect of the emotion by portraying them in a relatively mild form…
ADYNATON
Adynaton is a declaration of impossibility, often in an obviously exaggerated comparison.
Examples:
It’s easier for a camel to pass through the eye of a needle than a sinner get into the kingdom of heaven.
You've got as much chance with her as I have of becoming president.
👉 When something happens or is said that we consider highly unlikely, we are shocked and want to express our extreme emotion. Adynaton allows us to
do this by exaggeration. An easy way of doing this is by using a contrasting comparison.
Adynaton may well be used in a critical or cynical context, where concern for the other person's feelings is not high on the speaker's list of priorities.
AFFIRMATIO
Acting as if a point has already been questioned, challenged or disputed.
Examples:
I would answer any questions about this by saying: just look at the evidence. It is overwhelming and indisputable.
This is the right way. There is no alternative.
👉 Affirmatio is a pre-emptive method of avoiding challenge that acts as if a point has been questioned. If someone does challenge the point you can then
look confused and say 'I thought I have already addressed that'. It may well also prevent people from challenging as they realize that this conflict could
arise…
AGANACTESIS
1. A feeling of deep indignation leads to an exclaimed outburst.
Examples:
Good grief! What on earth are you doing!!
You stupid, foolish, idiotic, daft little boy!
👉 Aganactesis is often an uncontrolled (or perhaps partially controlled) outburst and, as such, has a certain honesty about it. It often includes aspects of
anger, horror and frustration. It shows something of the speaker's real feelings and can cause surprise and shock (and hence change). Even if they
apologize, what is said cannot be unsaid.
This natural quality may also be taken up deliberately, feigning the outburst in order to say things that would not be otherwise socially acceptable. When a
person becomes aroused and makes such outbursts, then it is generally accepted that they are 'temporarily insane' and unable to follow values and social
norms…
ALLEGORY
An allegory is the sustained and extended use of a metaphor across a whole sentence, paragraph or entire discourse or narrative.
Examples:
I feel like a dog today. I rolled out of my basket and munched on some biscuit-like cereal. Scratching as I got on the train, I sniffed a
passing female. Aruooo!! Down boy! ...
Raml's 'Animal Farm' is an allegorical work about society in general and Soviet communism in particular.
👉 An allegory takes the idea of a metaphor, where one thing is taken to represent another, and stretches it out into a longer context than a metaphor
might normally be used. An allegory also appeals to the imagination more than a metaphor, which tends to have a more rational basis.
Short 'teaching' stories, such as fables and parables, are often allegorical, as this alternative form softens the lecturing tone of a direct presentation.
Allegories are likewise useful in business presentations keeping them interesting whilst also making the message more palatable.
Longer stories may also be allegories. Criticism of politics, religion and other subjects that are likely to cause the writer problems can be written in a
suitably cloaked form. In some ways all stories can be viewed as allegories as they are representations of their authors' inner thoughts.
It’s easy to over-do an allegory, wringing out every last drop until the towel of meaning is twisted and torn. It is better to select the metaphor carefully,
then use it appropriately, lightly and persistently.
Allegory comes from the Greek 'allos' meaning 'other' and 'agora' or 'place of assembly'. 'Agoreuein' means ‘to speak in the assembly’. Its origin is hence
very much in public speaking and oratory….
ALLEOTHETA
Alleotheta involves substitution of one case, gender, mood, number, tense, or person for another.
Examples:
When he wore a dress she looks delightfully female.
I could be dancing yesterday, under the hot, dark moon,
Living her down, strutting to their tune.
Every dog has their day.
👉 Substitution can cause confusion and hence draw attention and challenge meaning. This is a sliding scale, where sometimes the substitution is obvious
and sometimes it is very subtle.
In poetry, the confusion effect may be used deliberately in almost nonsense verse, yet an underlying meaning is still there to be discovered in what may be
seen as a game between the author and the reader.
Alleotheta is sometimes used as a general category, including Antiptosis and other Ennallage. It’s also known as Allotheta, Alloeosis or Alloiosis…
ALLUSION
Allusion is an indirect reference to something.
Examples:
She's a very good friend of his...
What are you looking at?
It was a hot and steamy day. Jake shifted uneasily as Manny walked past, eyeing him coldly.
👉 Allusion is commonly used in speech where it would be considered rude or otherwise socially hazardous to make direct reference.
The thing alluded to may require some form of prior knowledge. In this way, it can be used as a signal to friends whilst others may not understand what is
being said.
Allusion uses the principle of association to connect a vague item to something more specific, or one clear item to another. In this way, when you start a
commonly known phrase, the rest of the phrase is alluded to and may be left out.
By making an incomplete description, a tension is created as the person seeks the closure of completion and hence thinks harder about that to which the
speaker may be alluding.
Prose and poetry often make use of allusion, hinting at things that the reader may discover.
Allusion comes from the Latin word 'allsus' meaning to play with.
ALLITERATION
Use of a sequence of words in which the initial letter is the same.
The words can be next to one another or spaced out.
Examples:
Health, happiness and hope for the New Year!
I want this, wish for this and wonder if it can be done.
Good grief! That's not the number. Run and recover the real one!
Bye-bye baby, baby bye-bye.
👉 Alliteration acts as a simple hammer, beating home the point. Although it may be used at the speed of the jackhammer, it’s more subtle. Combining
alliteration as a triple can be very effective.
The effect of alliteration can be almost poetic, making it pleasant and comfortable on the ears.
Note that some letters have softer sounds (eg. H) and some have more percussive sounds (eg. B). These will have correspondingly softer and harder
effects.
Alliteration is also called Homoeoprophoron, Adnomination, Agnomination and Annomination.
AMPHIBOLOGY
Amphibology is where there is ambiguity in the grammatical structure, often including mispunctuation.
Examples
King Harold walked and talked, ten minutes after he was dead. (should be King Harold walked and talked. Ten minutes after, he was
dead).
Medical services here. You won't get better.
Wanted: chair for a person with a wooden leg.
👉 Amphibology is different from more general ambiguity, as amphibology refers to the use of grammar rather than directly through words.
Amphibology can easily appear by accident, typically through careless copywriting. It can also be used for deliberate effect. When you offer multiple
meaning, you confuse and create attention and deeper thought, which is often desirable.
A phrase with more than one meaning can be risqué, as in the classic 'double entendre'. Amphibology is consequently found in much deliberate humor,
where the flexibility of the language is played to delightful effect.
Concern for Amphibology can be found in philosophy, where true meaning is sought, yet ambiguity is found at every turn. It also is common in poetry,
where manipulation of meaning is core.
Amphibology comes from the Greek, where 'Amphi' means 'on both sides', 'bolos' means 'throw' and 'logos' means 'word'. Thus Amphibology means
'throwing words about on both sides', or 'mixing up words' and hence 'ambiguity'.
Amphibology is also known as amphiboly, Amphibologia.(the more correct Greek form) and also Ambiguitas (because of the ambiguity).
ANABASIS
Anabasis is stepwise increasing of sense or emphasis in each phrase or sentence.
Examples
We must respond. We must fight! We must overcome this evil enemy!!
Are you there? I can hear you! There -- I see you!!
Good, better, best!

👉 Anabasis uses the recency principle, where we remember best that which is said last or most recently. Spoken as a rising crescendo, it can also give
power to the conclusion of a paragraph or speech.
Anabasis can be used to show growing confidence, perhaps as a speaker is encouraged by positive responses to earlier but weaker assertions.
Anabasis is the opposite of Catabasis, which is a stepwise decreasing of emphasis.
Anabasis is Greek for 'Ascent' or 'going up'.
ANACOENOSIS
Anacoenosis is asking the opinion of others in a way that demonstrates a common interest.
Examples
Do you not think we can do this now?
Now tell me, given the evidence before us, could you have decided any differently?
What do you think? Are we a bit weary? Shall we stay here for a while?
👉 Anacoenosis typically uses a rhetorical question, where no reply is really sought or required, thus softening what is really a statement or command.
Asking a question that implies one clear answer is to put others in a difficult position. If they disagree with you, then they risk conflict or derision. In
particular if you state the question with certainty, then it makes disagreement seem rude.
Particularly when used in a group, this uses social conformance. If there is an implied agreement by all and one person openly disagrees, then they risk
isolating themselves from the group, which is a very scary prospect.
If I am in an audience and the speaker uses anacoenosis and I do not agree yet do not speak up, then I may suffer cognitive dissonance between my
thoughts and actions. As a result, I am likely to shift my thinking toward the speaker's views in order to reduce this tension.
Anacoenosis comes from the Greek, 'Nakoinoun', meaning 'to communicate.'
ANACOLOUTHA
Substitution of nonreciprocal words, where one word may be substituted for another, but the second word could not be substituted back in the original
context.
Examples
1: She opened her thoughts to him.
2: She opened her heart to him.
Heart is used as a substitute for thoughts. You could not substitute thoughts for heart, though.
👉 This often works when one word is a higher form of another word. Thus 'human' is higher level than 'Ram’, so where Ram is used 'human' could be
used, but NOT vice versa. As in the example above, metaphor is often used.
Anacolutha is the opposite of Acoloutha, which is the substitution of reciprocal words.
Acolutha comes from the Greek word 'Acolouthos', meaning 'following, attending upon'. 'Ana' reverses this form…
ANACOLUTHON
Anacoluthon occurs in a sentence when syntax changes and the logical sequence does not progress as expected.
Examples
If you had come then I am not there.
When the light shines—if you ever return.
I ran South and West is where the heart is.
👉 Anacoluthon typically occurs when the expectation created by the start of the sentence is not fulfilled. When we hear something, we tend to predict
ahead, and grammatical syntax helps us do this. The sentence thus does not flow easily, although two parts of the sentence may well be logically related.
Anacoluthon can occur when the sentence breaks into two, typically using punctuation such as a dash. It may also be turned on a word that has meaning
both in the first part and the second part. Another way of creating change is to change the tense.
Anacoluthon can be a simple error, although it is also used for deliberate effect, often causing mild confusion and hence attention. It may also be used in
poetry and prose to make readers pause and think about any hidden meaning.
Anacoluthon is sometimes confused with Anacoloutha. Just to make matters worse, the plural of anacoluthon is 'anacolutha'.
It comes from the Greek 'An', meaning ‘NOT’, and 'akolouthos,' meaning ‘following’. It thus means 'lacking sequence'.
ANACRUSIS
Anacrusis is the lack of emphasis on the first few words of a sentence.
Examples
In the town where I was born... (from Beatles song 'Yellow Submarine' - 'town' receives the first emphasis; 'In the' is the unstressed
anacrucis).
When I was young my father said, said 'Son I have something to say...
Are you ready to buy this now?
👉 Anacrusis is less a grammatical figure and more a name for the pattern that appears in particular in songs. nevertheless it is useful in understanding the
impact of emphasis.
Within a sentence, emphasis is normally placed on key words. These are the words that the speaker wants the listener to pay particular attention to. Other
words fill in and give context. They may also be used to create subtle influence..
ANADIPLOSIS
The repetition of a word sequence used at the end of a phrase or sentence at the start of the next phrase or sentence.
Examples
If you are going to play wolf, play wolf like the real thing.
I would but run away. Run away, perhaps today. Perhaps today I will. I will run away.
Will you come with me? Come with me to a better place. A place where we can be together forever, forever where we can do what we
know must be done.
👉 When something is repeated, a pattern is created. We are programmed to recognize patterns and so we pay attention.
Repetition emphasizes. It hammers home the message that 'this is important'.
Anadiplosis is a typical device that is used when building a climax, with words set up in increasing importance. Spoken, this is likely to be done with rising
tone.
Anadiplosis comes from the Greek word for ‘Doubling’ or 'Repetition'.
ANALOGY
Analogy is a figure where an item is compared with a similar other.
Examples
Now you're acting like an idiot.
The atom is like a miniature solar system.
The train came out of the tunnel like a bullet from a gun.
👉 Analogy works on the assumptive principle that if two items are similar in some respects then other attributes will also be similar. This can be helpful
when thinking about a situation and a number of scientific discoveries have been assisted by analogous thinking.
Analogy is different to a metaphor in that the metaphor says 'A is B', whilst the analogy says A is like B'. The comparison is thus not as strong. Saying 'A is B'
means 'A is the same as B in all respects', whilst saying 'A is like B' means 'A is the same as B in some respects'. Using analogy is hence not as strong a
comparison as using metaphor and consequently may be more acceptable in situations where direct equating is not appropriate.
Analogy has also been described as a 'shared abstration', a form of induction and a hidden deduction.
In argument, comparisons taken from an analogous field may be drawn in to explain and justify arguments. Using analogy in this way easily becomes
fallacious.
Analogy comes from the Greek 'Analogia', meaning ‘according to a due ratio’.
ANAPHORA
Anaphora is the repetition of words at the start of successive clauses, phrases or sentences.
Examples
Run, run, run little piggies!
Three blind mice! Three blind mice!
Now is the time for action. Now is the time to take up arms. Now is the time to fight for your country.
Blessed are the good and blessed are the poor.
👉 The primacy effect says that things at the beginning are
remembered. Repetition also enhances memory. Anaphora thus has a powerful effect on hammering home an important point. It thence provides the
bedrock on which subsequent words are built.
Anaphora is an partial inversion of Anadiplosis, which repeats words at the end.
More generally, Anaphora can also mean a reference back to a previous term. Thus subsequent repetitions are references back to previous similar words.
In this form, exact repetition is not needed, for example 'Ram is a man, he is good.' ('he' refers back to Ram).
Anaphora comes from the Greek 'Ana' meaning 'up' or 'back' and 'pherein' meaning 'to carry.'
ANTANACLASIS
Antanaclasis is the repetition of a word, where the word has different meanings each time.
Examples
If we do not hang together, we will hang separately.
Those who are not fired with enthusiasm, will be fired, with enthusiasm.
Will you have your will, Will? Then perhaps you will write your will.
👉 The effect of Anatanaclasis is an initial confusion as a word just used, and hence with one meaning already in short-term memory, is repeated with a
different meaning. This causes the listener to pause and think, thus creating attention to what is said.
Using Antanaclasis displays an overt cleverness that perhaps seeks to impress the listener with the verbal dexterity of the speaker (though if the listener
detects arrogance, perhaps it is the speaker that will get impressed by the listener.
Antanaclasis comes from Greek 'Antanaklasis', meaning 'reflection' or 'echo'.
Antanaclasis is also known as Antilogy.
ANTANAGOGE
Antanagoge occurs where a negative point is balanced with a positive point.
Examples
Yes, I know I've lost my job, but I'm so looking forward to spending time at home.
So you live alone? It must be nice to be able to do what you want.
You are doing good work, though you are not involving others enough. I still think you can become our most valued team member.
She died, and her enemies cried 'How glad we were to know her.'
👉 When we talk or think about negative things we experience uncomfortable feelings associated with that thing. This is particularly true if it is a memory,
but also happens empathetically when others talk about negative things.
As a result, we often avoid talking about negative things, both because of the effect on us and also because of the effect on others (there is a strong social
rule about not causing emotional distress to others). If we must say something negative, then we will balance it up with something positive.
If we must criticize another person, one method is to soften the blow by starting with a positive comment. We may also end with a positive, 'sandwiching'
the negative with positive comments before and after.
Antanagoge may also be used as a deliberate device in poetry or prose to highlight an obvious negative under the guise of a positive. This uses the
contrast principle to throw the negativity into stark relief..
ANAPHORA
Anaphora is the repetition of words at the start of successive clauses, phrases or sentences.
Examples
Run, run, run little piggies!
Three blind mice! Three blind mice!
Now is the time for action. Now is the time to take up arms. Now is the time to fight for your country.
Blessed are the good and blessed are the poor.
👉 The primacy effect says that things at the beginning are remembered. Repetition also enhances memory. Anaphora thus has a powerful effect on
hammering home an important point. It thence provides the bedrock on which subsequent words are built.
Anaphora is an partial inversion of anadiplosis, which repeats words at the end.
More generally, Anaphora can also mean a reference back to a previous term. Thus subsequent repetitions are references back to previous similar words.
In this form, exact repetition is not needed, for example 'Ram is a man, he is good.' ('He' refers back to Ram).
Anaphora comes from the Greek 'Ana' meaning 'up' or 'back' and 'pherein' meaning 'to carry.'
ANTANACLASIS
Antanaclasis is the repetition of a word, where the word has different meanings each time.
Examples
If we do not hang together, we will hang separately.
Those who are not fired with enthusiasm, will be fired, with enthusiasm.
Will you have your will, Will? Then perhaps you will write your will.
👉 The effect of Anatanaclasis is an initial confusion as a word just used, and hence with one meaning already in short-term memory, is repeated with a
different meaning. This causes the listener to pause and think, thus creating attention to what is said.
Using Antanaclasis displays an overt cleverness that perhaps seeks to impress the listener with the verbal dexterity of the speaker (though if the listener
detects arrogance, perhaps it is the speaker that will get impressed by the listener.
Antanaclasis comes from Greek 'Antanaklasis', meaning 'reflection' or 'echo'.
Antanaclasis is also known as Antilogy.
ANASTROPHE
Anastrophe is a reversal of a normal word order, with words or phrases being juxtaposed.
Examples
Blessed are the meek. (vs. The meek are blessed.)
Good, it is. Strong in the force, you are. (Star Wars' Yoda speaks in anastrophe!)
Tripping the light fantastic.
👉 Anastrophe retains the meaning of a sentence whilst creating a little attention-causing confusion as the listener spends a little more time than usual
working out what is being said.
A typical anastrophe is created by putting an adjective after a noun rather than before it (or adverb after a verb), such as 'He's a man happy' instead of
'He's a happy man'. Another way is to put the verb at the end of the sentence, such as in the Yoda example above.
Anastrophe has a slightly foreign and archaic feel and is common in poetry. Using it too much, however, opens you to parody (perhaps as in the fun had at
Yoda's expense).
Anastrophe comes from the Greek 'Anastrephein', meaning 'to turn up', or 'to turn back', which in turn come from 'ana', meaning 'up', and 'strephein',
meaning 'to turn'.
ANTANAGOGE
Antanagoge occurs where a negative point is balanced with a positive point.
Examples
Yes, I know I've lost my job, but I'm so looking forward to spending time at home.
So you live alone? It must be nice to be able to do what you want.
You are doing good work, though you are not involving others enough. I still think you can become our most valued team member.
She died, and her enemies cried 'How glad we were to know her.'
👉 When we talk or think about negative things we experience uncomfortable feelings associated with that thing. This is particularly true if it is a memory,
but also happens empathetically when others talk about negative things.
As a result, we often avoid talking about negative things, both because of the effect on us and also because of the effect on others (there is a strong social
rule about not causing emotional distress to others). If we must say something negative, then we will balance it up with something positive.
If we must criticize another person, one method is to soften the blow by starting with a positive comment. We may also end with a positive, 'sandwiching'
the negative with positive comments before and after.
Antanagoge may also be used as a deliberate device in poetry or prose to highlight an obvious negative under the guise of a positive. This uses the
contrast principle to throw the negativity into stark relief.
ANTIMETABOLE
Antimetabole is the repetition of a clause, with reversed wording in the second clause.
Examples
We eat to live, not live to eat.
Ask not what your country can do for you, but what you can do for your country. -- J.F.Kennedy
It is not even the beginning of the end but is perhaps, the end of the beginning -- Winston Churchill.
👉 When the first clause is spoken, it may not be particularly noticeable. However, when the second clause is given, the repetition is immediately noticed.
This is a form of emphasis.
Initially the Antimetabole may seem confusing, forcing the listener to review what was said in order to make sense of the full meaning.
Using antimetabole can have a punchy, significant impact. It is thus very popular, particularly in political speeches.
Antimetabole is a type of chiasmus, though with a tighter, more specific form.
It is also used as a word to describe an epanados that is also an antithesis.
Antimetabole is sometimes called Antistrophe, although this word also has other meanings.
ANTHYPOPHORA
Anthypophora is arguing with oneself, for example asking questions and then answering them.
Examples
Hmm. I could go to the party or stay in with you. What shall I do? I think I'll stay here.
Is the Republican party the best? I think not. Why else were they beaten? Because they are no longer in touch with the people.
Who are you? You are my friend. Why did you betray me? Because you are not my friend.
👉 Anthypophora uses the principle of rhetorical questions to ask questions which the speaker wishes to answer. Sometimes this happens when nobody
else is asking the questions and sometimes when nobody is answering questions posed. Often it is used for deliberate effect.
One use of Anthypophora is to neutralize critics by asking questions that the critics may ask and then providing an answer, thus taking the wind out of their
sails before they get going.
Another use is to appear neutral by addressing both sides of an argument. However, this is done by using questions from the opposing side, often phrased
weakly, and then providing strong arguments for the desired position.
Anthypophera is also known as Hypophora. Sometimes the meanings are separated, with Hypophora as the statement or question and Anthypophora as
the reply…
ANTIPHRASIS
Antiphrasis is the use of words in a sense opposite to its real meaning.
Examples
Oh, I am so beautiful! My long nose and pimple so attractive!
I am but a child of sixty years.
That is the worst performance I have seen. Oh, look at your face! -- actually I loved it.
👉 When something does not make sense, it surprises people, making them stop and think about what is really meant. A reversal is a very simple puzzle to
solve, so people will generally get the meaning quite quickly.
Irony uses incongruity to create wry humor. The reversal in antiphrasis is hence a very easy way of creating ironic statements.
Antiphrasis can also be used for sarcasm, reversing something to show that you know well what is intended.
Antiphrasis comes from the Greek 'Anti', meaning 'opposite', and 'phrasis', meaning 'diction'; also 'antiphrazein,' meaning 'to express by antithesis or
negation..
Antiptosis
Antiptosis is translation of one case into another, using 'of' in the linkage.
Example
The folly of man (vs. the foolishness of man)
The depth of water (vs. the deep water)
In the fullness of time (vs. in full time)
Discussion
Antiptosis uses preposition 'of' more like a conjunction, joining things together, rather than showing membership. The connection can be used to join and
hence extend or enhance meaning, in the manner of an analogy.
Antiptosis is very similar to hendiadys, where two words are typically linked by 'and'. For example the hendiadys 'The kingdom and the glory' becomes the
antiptosis 'The kingdom
of glory'.
Antiptosis is also similar to hypallage, where two words and cases are exchanged along with a reversal of sense and relationship.
A 'case' is a noun, pronoun or adjective, often marked by inflection, which is related in some way to other words in a sentence, such as 'deep' and 'depth'.
'Antiptosis' is also used to describe the simple joining of words by 'of'.
21-06-2018 12:01:08 PM: +91 78648 67727: Antisthecon
Techniques > Use of language > Figures of speech > Antisthecon
Method | Example | Discussion | See also
Description
Antisthecon occurs where a word is altered by changing a sound, syllable or letter within it.
Example
'Parse the sorlt!' he said, in his lovely country accent.
Auntie's-the-con; uncle's the pro.
Mary, Mary, are you vary good? Do you cary wood for the fire?
Oh loook, it's a skelington!
Discussion
Antisthecon can occur where an incorrect pronunciation or spelling of a word is used. There is a range of words like this, from 'seccetry' for 'secretary' to
'definate' for 'definite'. These typically happen when a person spells the word in the way they pronounce it.
Puns use antisthecon when they change the spelling or sound of a word for humorous effect.
The distortion of antisthecon may cause confusion and hence a pause to think harder about the meaning.
Antisthecon is a form of metaplasm, which is a general term for changing of a word's spelling.
Antisthecon is also known as wrenched rhyme, where the word is distorted in order to rhyme in a poem (eg. 'love' may be pronounced 'lerv' to rhyme with
'serve'. This may be bad or clever poetry (often depending on your point of view).
Antisthecon is sometimes spelled antistoechon or
antistoecon.
It comes from the Greek 'anti-', meaning 'against' and 'stoicheon', meaning 'letter order.'
21-06-2018 12:02:29 PM: +91 78648 67727: Antistrophe
Techniques > Use of language > Figures of speech > Antistrophe
Description
Antistrophe is the repetition of words at the end of successive phrases or sentences.
Example
I told you do to it, again. Like last time, I had to repeat myself again. Why do I have to always have to say things again and again?
She is the object of my affection and love, just as I am the object of her affection and love.
I know the best party. The Democrats are the best party. I will vote for the best party.
Discussion
Repetition of a word of phrase creates a pattern and so draws attention to it. Repetition is thus a powerful tool that is used in all kinds of persuasive speech
and action.
When a word is at the end of something, whether a sentence or a list, the recency effect occurs, where by we are more likely to remember it.
Antistrophe thus uses a combination of repetition and recency to create a powerful linguistic form.
21-06-2018 12:04:08 PM: +91 78648 67727: Antithesis
Techniques > Use of language > Figures of speech > Antithesis
Description
Antithesis is the use of an opposite in order to highlight a point.
Example
It has been said we are good, but I say we are bad.
In many ways, the old are young.
She is very intelligent -- far from stupid.
Discussion
Antithesis uses the contrast principle to draw attention to something. When an opposite to what might be expected is given, it is usually a surprise and
hence causes the listener to slow down and figure out the puzzle presented.
Antithesis may simply include the negative or may be done as a form of repetition, stating both the positive and criticized negative case.
Argument is often described as thesis, antithesis and synthesis where, briefly, an idea is put forward (thesis), it is debated (antithesis) and the idea is
consequently improved (synthesis).
The principle of antithesis may also be used more broadly, for example where a character in a play acts in contrary ways, or where two characters have
diametrically opposite positions, thus highlighting each other.
Litotes, where someone might say 'I am not unhappy' is a form of antithesis as 'unhappy' is the opposite of the intended 'happy'.
21-06-2018 12:04:46 PM: +91 78648 67727: Antonomasia
Techniques > Use of language > Figures of speech > Antonomasia
Description
Antonomasia is the naming of a person not with their given name but another name of some form.
Example
Easy, tiger!
Hello, Bruce. (There is some mysteriously humorous about Australians and the name Bruce)
Excuse me Tarzan, could you please come down from that tree.
Discussion
What is in a name? A great deal, actually. Every word is a little package of meaning, and when we take a word and attach it to a person, then all the
meaning of the word is transferred to the person. In the manner of the metaphor, connection of two things creates a powerful new meaning.
Thus, for example, when you name a person as an animal, then they gain qualities of the animal. When you name them as a famous person, they gain the
attributes of that person. Context counts! Calling a person Tiger on the golf course is very different to using that name in the bedroom.
In usng antonomasia, there is an element of hypocatastasis, where an implied
21-06-2018 12:06:05 PM: +91 78648 67727: Apcope
Techniques > Use of language > Figures of speech > Apcope
Description
Apcope is the omission of letters from the end of a word.
Example
Th' play's th' thing.
And when I ope my lips let no dog bark!
Par' o' th' ceilin's missin'.
Discussion
Dropping letters from the end of a word is particularly common in slang and lazy language, where casualness can be portrayed as a lack of concern, perhaps
because the speaker has all they need and has a strong sense of control. In this way it is used by young men who posture for one another.
Apcope is often tied to particular times and cultures and is found in such as Cockney slang and Shakesperian English.
21-06-2018 12:06:39 PM: +91 78648 67727: Aphaeresis
Techniques > Use of language > Figures of speech > Aphaeresis
Description
Aphaeresis is the omission of letters from the start of a word, typically removing a complete syllable.
Example
The king hath cause to plain.
Can I 'scape this dull place?
'tis a 'normous place!
Discussion
Removing letters at the start of a word and still keeping it pronounceable usually means that a complete syllable must be removed. To remove more than
one syllable would make most aphaeresis incomprehensible, so the single syllable deletion is most common.
In written text, the missing letters may well be indicated with an apostrophe.
In speech, parts of words are often dropped from laziness or to allow faster speech. In poetry and metric prose, it ay be used as a device to keep the
rhythm.
21-06-2018 12:07:50 PM: +91 78648 67727: Aphorismus
Techniques > Use of language > Figures of speech > Aphorismus
Description
Aphorismus is questioning or challenging the meaning of a word.
Example
Call yourself a man? You're acting like a boy!
That's not a car, it's a lawn mower!
Is that 'music' is these days? How impoverished you must be.
Discussion
Words are little packets of meaning that have all kinds of connotations by which we enrich and extend the language. For example, 'man' may also mean
'strong', 'independent', 'chivalrous', and so on.
This gives plenty of scope in challenging the meaning of a word by challenging one of the extended elements. Thus, for example, a man who is not 'strong'
may have his manhood challenged in an ad hominem attack that implies that failure to comply with one added meaning is failure to comply with the basic
meaning or denotation of the word.
21-06-2018 12:08:34 PM: +91 78648 67727: Apophasis
Techniques > Use of language > Figures of speech > Apophasis
Description
Apophasis is talking about something without directly mentioning it.
Example
I'm just going .. er.. to the .. um .. little room .. back soon. (going to the toilet)
You know who is doing you know what with you know who else!
He's not going out with Jane, and not with Susan. But I'm not allowed to say who he is going out with.
Discussion
There are times when it is impolite to mention something or using the word could get you into trouble. Seeking not to embarrass ourselves or others, we
thus talk around the forbidden words or subjects.
Sex, bodily function, interpersonal differences, religion and so on are typical of subjects where there are plenty of social taboos and political incorrectness
for the unwary to go astray. Those in the know either avoid the topic or talk delicately around it.
Euphemisms are words that are used to replace words we cannot say. The toilet is thus called, the 'John', the 'loo', the 'little room' and so on.
Sometimes we try to describe things by what they are not. Sometimes we may use metaphor.
Sometimes a fairly direct reference may be used, typically mentioning the intial letter, such as 'the f-word'.
Apophasis does not go as far as making no reference, such as the Emperor's nudity in the story of 'The Emperor's New Clothes'.
21-06-2018 12:10:04 PM: +91 78648 67727: Aporia
Techniques > Use of language > Figures of speech > Aporia
Description
Aporia is pretending to doubt something.
Example
Maybe I am stupid, or something. Maybe I am not paying attention here. Or maybe you are talking rubbish.
Now, ladies and gentlemen, would you say that was the worst joke I have told? Or was it the best joke? Funny, that. I can't tell either.
Discussion
Expressing doubt prompts others to empathetically consider how something may be doubted and so sows seeds of uncertainty in them. This causes
confusion and leads others to seek certainty, which the speaker can give with subsequent statements (and which are thus less likely to be challenged).
Doubt may thus be used as the start of an argument, clearing the decks for the speaker's real intent. The doubt may be sustained or, more often, the
speaker proves themself wrong by showing the doubt to be unfounded.
Aporia often appears in the form of a rhetorical question.
Aporia is also called Dubitatio or Dubitation.
21-06-2018 12:10:47 PM: +91 78648 67727: Aposiopesis
Techniques > Use of language > Figures of speech > Aposiopesis
Description
Aposiopesis is stopping a sentence before it has been grammatically completed.
Example
I wandered lonely as a...
If I gave you what you wanted, would you...
This is the best since...
If you touch her I'll, I'll...
Discussion
We all have a deep need for the comfort of certainty, which translates into completion of activities and even sentences. Completing a sentence (or
anything) gives the desired comfort of closure. Hence when a person does not complete a sentence, we feel a strong compulsion first to think about what
the ending might be and, if they do not speak further, to fill the silent void, most probably with our guessed completion.
Using aposiopesis, one usually starts a sentence and then stops, leaving a 'pregnant pause'. This invites the other person to complete the sentence, either in
their imagination or even speaking out loud.
The completion of the sentence may also be rhetorical, where both speaker and audience know the answer and it needs not be said, for example when a
person is being suggestive.
Aposiopesis may also imply that the speaker is so overcome by emotion (from passion to anger) they are unable to speak further. It can also signal modesty
or uncertainty.
Aposiopesis is Greek for 'becoming silent'.
21-06-2018 12:11:33 PM: +91 78648 67727: Apostrophe
Techniques > Use of language > Figures of speech > Apostrophe
Description
Apostrophe is breaking off from normal speech and speaking to an imaginary person or even to an abstract quality or idea.
Example
(to camera) He's getting angry. Now we'll have some fun!
Heaven tell me, why does he speak thus?
O, I do not know what to do? What should this be, do you think?
Discussion
An apostrophe steps out of normal speech, allowing the speaker to express a thought or feeling that does not fit into the normal speaking context. The
apostrophe is typically a question, an explanation or an expression of frustration.
In speech, apostrophe may well include a physical turning away from others in a symbolic show of speaking to another imaginary person or concept. This
allows the speaker to say things that they may well not feel able to say to the person or persons present.
In drama, the 'aside' is a common device where the actor speaks directly to the audience, perhaps to tell them his or her thoughts or act as a narrator in
some way. In movies, the actor will look directly into the camera.
In classic drama or poetry, an apostrophe may be signalled by prefixing it with the word 'O'.
'Apostrophe' is Greek for 'turning away'. It is also known as
apostrophatio or exclamatio.
Of course an apostrophe is also a word for a a grammatical symbol.
21-06-2018 12:12:09 PM: +91 78648 67727: Apposition
Techniques > Use of language > Figures of speech > Apposition
Description
Apposition is the use of two elements, where the second explains or modifies the first.
Example
Eleri, oh light of my life, igniter of passion!
Look here at my brothers, my killers.
I looked up into the grim sky as the rain washed clean my weary face.
Discussion
Apposition may be used in developing a theme or idea, where the first part give initial information and next part (or parts) develops further meaning. In this
way, a complex situation can be explained in 'bite-sized' chunks, each layer adding more subtly and depth.
This process makes apposition useful in stories and prose where the development of meaning is a core process.
21-06-2018 12:13:02 PM: +91 78648 67727: Assonance
Techniques > Use of language > Figures of speech > Assonance
Description
Assonance is the repetition of vowel sounds across words, particularly in stressed syllables.
Example
How now, brown cow.
Newly cut the yew stuck, quivering, in the morning dew.
The pale, fat man would say that they can, but would they say that too?
Discussion
When a sound is repeated, it creates a pattern and hence the pleasure of recognition. In rhyme, the final sounds of words are repeated in successive
sections. Assonance can be more subtle, creating patterns more surreptitiously and hence sneaking up on the conscious mind and perhaps adding the
excitement of surprise.
Assonance can be over-done (perhaps as in the examples above) and can also be more subtle, with sounds spread across multiple phrases or sentences and
maybe at regular intervals, thus creating additional subtle patterning.
Assonance is common in poetry poetic prose. It may also be used in public speaking to create a more impressive-sounding speech.
21-06-2018 12:14:45 PM: +91 78648 67727: Asyndeton
Techniques > Use of language > Figures of speech > Asyndeton
Description
Asyndeton is a figure of speech where conjunctions are omitted from a series of related clauses.
Example
I came, I saw, I conquered. (Julius Caesar)
...we shall fight on the beaches, we shall fight on the landing grounds, we shall fight in the fields and in the streets, we shall fight in the hills; we shall never
surrender... (Winston Churchill)
I will buy you a drink; you do not deserve it.
Discussion
Conjunctions join clauses into complete sentences and include words such as although, and, as, after, before, because, but, if, nor, since, that, until, unless,
yet. They send signals about how the clauses work together. When then are omitted, they cause a certain amount of confusion, forcing the person to
review what was just said. Asyndeton can thus be used as a form of light emphasis.
Where the conjunction is omitted there may well be a pause, which appears in written text as a comma or semicolon. This may act as a signal to the listener
or reader to think again about the meaning.
You cannot just omit any conjunction. If you take the sentence 'I'll see you when you get home', omitting 'when' leaves nonsense. The clauses must stand
alone and the listener must be able to make sense of how they are connected.
One of the most common forms of asyndeton is the omission of the word 'and' in a list. This creates surprise as the word 'and' is usually a signal that the list
is about to end.
Asyndeton done well is terse and direct. Done badly, it is harsh staccato.
In grammar, syndetic means 'connected by conjunctions'. Related figures are syndeton (the use of a conjuction) and
polysyndeton (the use of multiple conjunctions).
Asyndeton is popular in speeches, where the 'and' in a list is often missed out. It is also used in poetry and literature to add terseness.
Asyndeton is also known as brachylogia.
21-06-2018 12:15:42 PM: +91 78648 67727: Aureation
Techniques > Use of language > Figures of speech > Aureation
Description
Aureation is the use of decorative language.
Example
In misty moments of glory she deigned to cast her dewy eyes upon my visage.
Down, cast, I was, thrown on the garbage pile of life's fell and despondent emptiness.
Discussion
Flowery, ornate language is common in some forms of poetry and 'purple prose'. It is often explicitly intended to paint vivid pictures, although the
underlying intent is often to impress the reader with the linguistic skills of the author.
The problem with aureation is that it can easily confusion and irritation rather than wonder.
21-06-2018 12:16:15 PM: +91 78648 67727: Autoclesis
Techniques > Use of language > Figures of speech > Autoclesis
Description
Autoclesis is introduction of a topic by refusing to talk about it.
Example
You know I'm not going to talk about Mike's affair.
Don't ask me about what happened today!
What? The job? Sorry, I can't talk about it...No, really...Oh, well, if you insist, what actually happened is...
Discussion
When we refuse to talk about something it makes other intrigued and they are more likely to want to talk about it. This can permit a person who, either by
promise or social convention feels unable to talk about the subject, open up and speak.
When something is begun, then we seek completion in order to gain closure. In this way when we find that someone knows something and is holding it
from us, we will become interested and even try to persuade them to talk
21-06-2018 12:16:56 PM: +91 78648 67727: Bdelygmia
Techniques > Use of language > Figures of speech > Bdelygmia
Description
Bdelygmia is sequence of abusive phrases or statements.
Example
He is loathsome to the eye and ear, disgusting all decent people with his ill manner and vitreous, poisonous tongue.
You horrible, horrible man! How could you treat her like that? What would your mother say? What were you thinking? I cannot believe anyone would be so
cruel!
Cigarettes are a filthy, horrible, disgusting habit. They pollute the air and poison children. Their purveyors are evil, wicked and mendacious promoters of
death.
Discussion
The 'litany of abuse' of bdelygmia often includes quite elaborate language and multiple adjectives and appears quite often in various texts and speeches. It
indicates the speaker's violent opposition to something or someone. In its extremeness, it indicates that the speaker is so horrified and appalled at such a
terrible transgression of values that they have temporarily lost control over what may be a normally mild and civil manner.
By implication, the subject of the speech is deigned to be particularly bad, wicked and evil, and that others should avoid them and not support them in any
way or else be subject to the speaker's continued ire.
When used in response to some attack, this is known as a 'tiger defense', sending the message 'if you attack me, I will attack you back even more fiercely!'
Done badly, however, or if the subject defends themself well, bdelygmia can rebound on the speaker, portraying them as intolerant, offensive, dogmatic
and otherwise an unpleasant and nasty person.
21-06-2018 12:17:43 PM: +91 78648 67727: Brachyology
Techniques > Use of language > Figures of speech > Brachyology
Description
Brachyology is the condensation of a phrase or sentence.
Example
To me!
Love, hope, charity.
I want out.
Discussion
Brachyology is typically accomplished by removal of words. Terseness in speech gives emphasis, stripping away unnecessary words and leaving the key
words that convey the core meaning.
Brachyology is a general term for condensation. Ellipsis is often used to mean the same thing. Asyndeton and Zeugma are types of brachyology.
Praegnans constructio is a form of brachyology where two clauses are condensed into one.
Brachyology is also called brachylogia, particularly where a conjunction is omitted.
21-06-2018 12:18:28 PM: +91 78648 67727: Brevitas
Techniques > Use of language > Figures of speech > Brevitas
Description
Brevitas is the use of a concise statement to say a lot more.
Example
Shit happens.
�a va (French: 'It goes').
Looking good!
Really somethiing.
Big guy.
Discussion
Brevity is the soul of wit. Short and sweet. Saying something in few words may leave quite a bit to the imagination, but then your imagination is smarter
than you. When the saying is well known, then not even the imagination is needed.
The words used can be given more meaning by simple body language such as a wink or a shrug. The surrounding context also may be very important.
By stripping back surrounding words, brevitas exposes the core meaning of what is said, thus enhancing it and increasing attention to it.
A simple form of brevitas is with a verb-noun combination, although other combinations may be used such as adverb-verb and adjective-noun.
21-06-2018 12:19:04 PM: +91 78648 67727: Cacemphaton
Techniques > Use of language > Figures of speech > Cacemphaton
Description
Cacemphaton is the use either of crude words or otherwise words which sound bad.
Example
Far too smelly. (sounds like 'fart to smelly')
Thou crotch stitch.
I had preservative on toast (in many languages, 'preservative' means 'condom')
Discussion
Although cacemphaton can just be intentional vulgarity, it is often accidental.
Cacemphaton may arise from what is known as 'false friends', where a word in one language translates badly or means something different into another
language or dialect. For example 'warm' in Dutch means 'not cold' (which includes 'hot'). This can be a splendid source of jokes and amusement.
Sometimes cacamphaton is useful in confusing and shocking in order to get attention. At other times it is to be avoided in order to sustain harmony.
Cacemphaton comes from the Greek for 'evil speech'.
21-06-2018 12:19:40 PM: +91 78648 67727: Catachresis
Techniques > Use of language > Figures of speech > Catachresis
Description
Catachresis is a the use of word or a figure of speech incorrectly, breaking the rules of usage.
Example
Her laughing feet fell overboard with amazement.
He looked at the price and his pockets ran dry.
She grabbed the bull by the horns of the dilemma.
He was as happy as a corpse.
Discussion
When we listen to normal speech we do not think about how correct it is. However, when something is said that breaks the rules of language it is
immediately clear and so grabs our
attention.
Catachresis can be used in a number of ways, for example:
Using a word outside its normal context, where it appears wrong.
Creating a contradiction or paradox.
Substituting one language element for another.
Using mixed metaphor.
Using a simile that does not work.
It is common in literature where it may be used for alarming effect, for example 'I will speak daggers to her' - Hamlet.
Catachresis is related to Malapropism, where a word that sounds similar is used (often with comic effect).
Catachresis comes from the Greek word meaning 'the wrong use of a word'.
The Latin name for catachresis is Abusio.
21-06-2018 12:20:43 PM: +91 78648 67727: Cataphora
Techniques > Use of language > Figures of speech > Cataphora
Description
Cataphora occurs where a word used is not initially clear and is explained by a subsequent word or words.
Example
If you like it, you can stroke the puppy.
This is John. He's the teacher you wanted to meet.
Discussion
Cataphora is a form of forward reference where vital information is initially omitted, only to be added in subsequent text.
When something is started but not completed, we feel the
tension of the Zeigarnik effect as we seek closure. The inadequate information in the initial word thus causes increased attention.
21-06-2018 12:21:32 PM: +91 78648 67727: Chiasmus
Techniques > Use of language > Figures of speech > Chiasmus
Description
Chiasmus is a reversal of words in consecutive phrases.
Example
She gave me hope and hopefully I gave my loyalty.
I thought you good, originally, but your originality is not that good.
He who sheds the blood of man, by man, shall his blood be shed -- Genesis 9.6
Discussion
The general pattern of chiasmus is A B, B A. This may be extended to multiple words and can even be ABCD, DCBA. The repetition of words may be in a
different sense and with alternative individual, as well as collective, meaning.
Repetition acts as a form of emphasis, drawing attention through creation of a pattern of similar words. The confusion caused, forces the listener to review
what was said in order to make sense of the full meaning. Its impact makes various forms of chiasmus popular with speech-makers.
Chiasmus includes antimetabole and anadiplosis, although the reverse is not true.
Chiasmus is also known as Epanodos.
21-06-2018 12:22:45 PM: +91 78648 67727: Climax
Techniques > Use of language > Figures of speech > Climax
Description
Climax is the arrangement of words in increasing order of effect.
Example
We'll collect pennies in tens, hundreds and millions! Power starts small, becomes significant then becomes unstoppable.
We'll fight them in the country, in every town and every street. We shall not surrender!
Love creates happiness, happiness creates joy, joy creates enlightenment.
Discussion
'Climax' in this usage creates the word in its common usage, building up to a climax. A well-built climax increases expectation and so tension with each item
in the list.
As words are added to the sequence, a pattern is set up, first of a similar theme and then of increasing importance and impact.
Climax may be used with other devices such as the triple or
anadiplosis.
The opposite of climax is anti-climax, where tension is release in a disappointing way.
Climax is also known as Gradation.
Climax is the Greek for 'ladder'.

21-06-2018 12:23:38 PM: +91 78648 67727: Consonance
Techniques > Use of language > Figures of speech > Consonance
Description
Consonance is the repetition of a consonant across words, particularly at the word ending.
Example
Take the book back.
Run for fun and everyone.
Seven virgins have moved there.
Discussion
Consonance is a subtle form of rhyme, creating a repetitive beat across a sequence of words. The effect can be both poetic and also hypnotic, relaxing
others and perhaps drawing attention away from persuasive content.
Consonance is a kind of opposite of Assonance, which is the repetition of vowel sounds.
21-06-2018 12:24:29 PM: +91 78648 67727: Correctio
Techniques > Use of language > Figures of speech > Correctio
Description
Correctio is the use of a corrective extension to a statement.
Example
He is the best warrior in the region -- nay, the entire country!
You have not considered the meaning of this -- or at least not though much about it.
Discussion
Correctio is typically used as a form of exaggeration,
amplifying the initial statement with extended scope or value. In the correction, repetition is also being used to hammer home the point.
The correction may also be used to say something controversial, then retreat to a more acceptable position. Having made the first statement, the 'cat is out
of the bag' and listeners are forced to consider this meaning. The correction then gets in quick before a criticism is made.
Correctio is also known as Metanoia
21-06-2018 12:24:54 PM: +91 78648 67727: Crasis
Techniques > Use of language > Figures of speech > Crasis
Description
Crasis is the contraction of a word or words, often into a form that has two vowels that combine to make a longer sound.
Example
Madam becomes Ma'am (pronounced 'marm') (and originally from the French 'Ma dame')
Discussion
Contraction of words is often culturally situated and the use thus indicates that the speaker is from a particular cultural context. The vowel combination is
typical of many 'upper class' cultures, where speech is moved further back in the mouth and vowels are lengthened.
21-06-2018 12:25:24 PM: +91 78648 67727: Diacope
Techniques > Use of language > Figures of speech > Diacope
Description
Diacope is the repetition of a word or phrase with only a few other intervening words between the repetition and the original use.
Example
Fire, hot fire, burned across the town.
It will be done. By hook or by crook, it will be done.
'Why?' he asked, 'Why?' And well he might.
Discussion
Diacope can be done in a form where the repetition is done almost as a correction to add more descriptive text. Another form is as a bracket, starting and
ending a section with the same words.
Repeating a word is a form of emphasis, drawing attention to a work by simply stating it again (and thereby creating a pattern).
Diacope is Greek for 'cutting in two'.
21-06-2018 12:25:55 PM: +91 78648 67727: Diallage
Techniques > Use of language > Figures of speech > Diallage
Description
Diallage is the consideration of arguments from different viewpoints to and then turned to make a single point.
Example
John says we need to go South. Jane wants to go West. What is important is that we can't stay here.
If we put up our prices, then revenue may increase but sales will drop. If we put effort into marketing, then we may well more but margins will be thinner.
Maybe we can combine these, funding marketing through an increase in prices.
Discussion
In negotiation and other forms of argument and debate, it is common for people to take sides and polarize their positions. With a collaborative facilitation,
the parties are brought together and the best of both arguments are combined for a solution that helps everyone.
Diallage uses this principle, combining diverse viewpoints. In persuasion this can make the speaker seem fair and even-handed. It can also defuse
opponents if you are seen to consider their position.
Diallage comes from Greek and means 'through making other than it is'.
21-06-2018 12:26:35 PM: +91 78648 67727: Distinctio
Techniques > Use of language > Figures of speech > Distinctio
Description
Distinctio uses reference to multiple meanings of a word or other elaboration to highlight or enquire about which particular meaning is intended.
Example
When I say hot, I do not mean she was warm -- I mean she was very sexy!
Now when you say 'rough', do you mean difficult or do you mean harsh, because both make sense, although I would have thought the latter most
appropriate.
Now becoming invisible is impossible. And by impossible I mean beyond possibility within our current technologies.
Discussion
When a word can have more than one meaning, the intended meaning is usually clear from the context within the sentence. Likewise confusion may arise
from the potential ambiguity or misunderstanding of a word.
When the speaker wants to be sure that understanding is unambiguous they may use Distinctio to achieve this goal. To the listener, this can appear rather
forced as the speaker makes significant issue of the point.
In changing minds, Distinctio can be used deliberately to sustain attention on a particular item. If this is a relatively unimportant point, then perhaps the
speaker is seeking to
distract the listener from some other point.
21-06-2018 12:27:06 PM: +91 78648 67727: Dysphemism
Techniques > Use of language > Figures of speech > Dysphemism
Description
Dysphemism is the use of extreme words instead of more moderate or accurate words.
Example
She was beating me up with really horrific words.
Gambling is a tax on losers.
The government are idiots.
Discussion
When an extreme word is used it amplifies the meaning and thus grabs attention. It says 'this is important, please listen!'
The use of swear words is common in dysphemism and it is often a signal that the person using it is emotionally aroused. This can be a threat situation and
hence encourages other people to pay close attention.
Dysphemism is an opposite to euphemism, where a mild word is used.
21-06-2018 12:28:12 PM: +91 78648 67727: Dysrhythmia
Techniques > Use of language > Figures of speech > Dysrhythmia
Description
Dysrhythmia is the breaking of a rhythmic pattern.
Example
I will come, I will conquer, I will rule, but I will not stay forever.
Cleaning the house, cleaning the car, dirt in the garden. Dirt can be good. Dirt can grow plants. Your dirt needs tender care.
Running, jumping, thumping, bumping. Bashing, crashing.
Falling, failing.
Ending.
Discussion
Patterns are set up by repetition, with two or three instances used to create the rhythm. The repetition may be through such as words, syllables or sounds.
All it takes is a small disturbance and the pattern, which may remain in some form, is changed.
When we hear patterns, we start to predict what will happen next. When that pattern is broken, we are surprised, which creates the stimulation of arousal
and consequent attention.
21-06-2018 12:28:56 PM: +91 78648 67727: Dystmesis
Techniques > Use of language > Figures of speech > Dystmesis
Description
Dystmesis is the insertion of one word into the middle of another word.
Example
Fan-bloody-tastic!
Congrat-amazing-ulations, young man.
I lovely-ove it!
Discussion
Dystmesis implies that the speaker is so overcome with
emotions they have lost some control over language or otherwise cannot find the words to express how strongly they feel, and thus have to invent a new
word.
Insertion words are often swear words and effectively add the strong emotion that is often associated with them.
Dystmesis is often culturally bound, being found more often in some parts of society rather than others.
21-06-2018 12:29:33 PM: +91 78648 67727: Ellipsis
Techniques > Use of language > Figures of speech > Ellipsis
Description
Ellipsis is omission of words from a sentence or phrase without losing the essential meaning.
Example
John, that way; Jane, there. (vs. 'John go that way; Jane stay there.').
Good meeting. (vs. 'It was a good meeting)
When ready. (vs. 'You can start when you are ready')
Discussion
There is a lot of redundancy in language and it can be surprising how much can be left out without losing much meaning, particularly when there are
contextual clues as to the real meaning.
Sluicing ellipsis is the removal of the end of a sentence, typically when it would mean repeating previous words, such as She ran, but I don't know why,
which should more correctly She ran, but I don't know why she ran.
Verb-phrase ellipsis is the removal of a verb and associated words, such as I like it. You too?, which should be I like it. Do you like it too?
Noun-phrase ellipsis is removing nouns and associated words, such as I have six dogs, whilst Mike has two. (Mike has two dogs, of course).
Absolute ellipsis is where a significant amount of of information is omitted, such as Caesar's last words 'Et tu, Brute'.
Relative ellipsis is where a missing word is supplied by the context, for example I'm the small supplier. He's the big, or where there is a reference back to a
previous item using words like 'it' or 'he'.
An ellipsis that omits all verbs from a sentence is called scesis onamaton. For example Me Tarzan, you Jane.
Ellipsis can be deliberately nudged into ambiguity to cause
confusion and hence attention or distraction.
Ellipsis comes from the Greek meaning 'to leave'.
21-06-2018 12:43:46 PM: +91 78648 67727: Enallage
Techniques > Use of language > Figures of speech > Enallage
Description
Ennelage is the substitution of one grammatical form for another.
Example
They is happy. (vs. they are happy)
Look at you! She who is beautiful. (vs. you are beautiful)
It was done by myself. (vs. I did it)
We was robbed! (vs. We were, or I was)
Discussion
Enallage may well be accidental and a result of the speaker having a limited grasp of the language. It may also be done as a deliberate ploy to make a point
or have a particular effect, directing attention differently.
Changing pronouns, for example, changes the relationship with another person. Changing 'you' to 'she' distances the the other person, putting them the
world at large where everyone sees them, as opposed to the 'you' of an intimate conversation. The reverse is also true and talking about another person as
'you' makes the relationship personal.
Switching between active and passive voice changes meaning. 'I did it' is a clear admission of responsibility, whilst 'It was done by myself' distances the
speaker from the act.
Enallage is the Greek word for 'interchange').
21-06-2018 12:44:27 PM: +91 78648 67727: Enjambment
Techniques > Use of language > Figures of speech > Enjambment
Description
Enjambment is the breaking of a phrase or sentence at an unexpected point, typically in verse.
Example
I would come to
you, with your weeping
hair and deep
and dismal eyes.
I want to know that...I am really...sorry.
Discussion
Breaking a line of verse or putting a pause into a sentence makes the other person pause. In that pause, they will likely review what has just been said,
reflecting on what was said and rehearsing for what is to come.
Enjambment adds an unexpected element to this, causing
surprise, confusion and thereby additional attention. With an unusual break in what you say, you can therefore add suspense, sustain attention and
emphasize certain words.
Enjambment comes from the French 'enjambement', meaning 'straddling'.
21-06-2018 12:45:29 PM: +91 78648 67727: Epanalepsis
Techniques > Use of language > Figures of speech > Epanalepsis
Description
Epanalepsis is the repetition of a word or words at both the beginning and end of a sentence or clause.
Example
Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.
Buy this car and you'll be glad you decided to buy this today.
The king is dead; long live the king!
A question for which there is no answer is still a question, but an answer for which there is no question is no answer.
Discussion
Repeated words do not have to be exactly at the start and end and a word or two outside them still creates epanalepsis.
Repetition is a form of emphasis, and repeating final words thus acts to hammer home something at the beginning.
Words at the beginning are more memorable due to the
primacy effect, whilst words at the end are remembered more often due to the recency effect. Repeating the same words at the start and at the end thus
has a 'double whammie' amplification.
Chiasmus is related as it is 'nested double-epanalepses'.
21-06-2018 12:46:28 PM: +91 78648 67727: Epanados
Techniques > Use of language > Figures of speech > Epanados
Description
Epanados is the repetition of words from earlier in a phrase or sentence in the reverse order.
Example
Love is right because there is only one right love.
A right is given, which gives you right.
Mad, bad and sad they say, but I'm just sad that such bad things are said by those who can only be mad.
Discussion
Reversing something is to create a pattern. We are particularly good at spotting patterns and epanados thus becomes a code, a puzzle, something to be
spotted and understood. Repetition also emphasized, and it hence acts as a relatively subtle attentional device.
An epanados which is also an antithesis is called an
antimetabole.
Epanados comes from the Greek, meaning a return or a rising way.
21-06-2018 12:47:20 PM: +91 78648 67727: Epanorthosis
Techniques > Use of language > Figures of speech > Epanorthosis
Description
Epanorthosis is emphatic correction, mid-sentence, of what has just been said.
Example
I have had two...no, that's three...heart attacks.
Let me give you a gland--sorry--a hand.
The time is coming--actually it has already arrived!
Discussion
When a correction is made, it draws attention to the words, although it may also cause confusion and lose meaning.
A key part of epanorthosis is immediate correction, within the same sentence. Of course you can also use the correction to move off onto another topic.
Epanorthosis can also include the 'Freudian slip' where a person accidentally says what they are really thinking. Of course this may be deliberate even
though it should always appear as accidental.
The immediate, in-sentence corrective form means that epanorthosis is very largely used in speech and is unlikely to be found in written text.
'Epanorthosis' comes from Greek meaning to 'set right again'.
21-06-2018 12:48:25 PM: +91 78648 67727: Epenthesis
Techniques > Use of language > Figures of speech > Epenthesis
Description
Epenthesis is the addition of letters to the middle of a word.
Example
I was visitating her.
Happipily bounciling along.
I'm a banananana
'cos I go nana-nana
Discussion
Sometimes misspelling like this is accidental. It may also be faked for humorous effect. It may also be used in a poetic sense, to create a sound or beat or
make lines of a poem align.
Changing the spelling of a word changes its sound and causes confusion and hence holds attention.
Classific
21-06-2018 12:49:45 PM: +91 78648 67727: Epistrophe
Techniques > Use of language > Figures of speech > Epistrophe
Description
Epistrophe is where a set of lines, phrases, clauses, or sentences end with same word or words.
Example
Looking good, feeling good.
Are you hot? I am.
Are you raging? I am.
Are you ready? I am.
The time is now, the need is now, We must act, now!
Discussion
Repetition creates a pattern and hence the comfort of familiarity. It also causes attention to the repeated words, which may be used to hammer home a
point.
Words at the end of a phrase or line may also benefit from the recency effect, where more recent items are more likely to be remembered.
Epistrophe is often combined in a triple, with a point being repeated three times.
This powerful final emphasis makes it popular with speech-writers, who may use it towards the end of the presentation to build up and the end on the key
point.
Epistrophe is sometimes called antistrophe, although this word also has other meanings. It is also called epiphora.
21-06-2018 12:51:15 PM: +91 78648 67727: Epizeuxis
Techniques > Use of language > Figures of speech > Epizeuxis
Description
Epizeuxis is the repetition of a word with increasing vehemence.
Example
No! No!! NO!!! NO!!!!
Oh, my son, my son, what will you do, my son??
I am lost, lost, lost unto the darkening seas.
Discussion
Repetition is a form of emphasis, which coupled with added emotion in the voice makes epizeuxis a very powerful, though simple form of expressing
something very vehemently.
21-06-2018 12:52:05 PM: +91 78648 67727: Ethopoeia
Techniques > Use of language > Figures of speech > Ethopoeia
Description
Ethopoeia is putting oneself in the place of another, in particular to understand their feelings.
Example
If I were Jane, I'd weep for weeks in anguish for the loss.
How might they feel? What is it like to stand in their shoes and walk that final mile alone?
Discussion
Empathy is a very real effect and mirror neurons in our brains are specifically designed to make us feel what others are feeling.
By showing empathy with one other person, you signal your general good character to all who are listening. In this way, ethopoeia can be used to build
trust and demonstrate integrity.
Ethopoeia also allows you to create empathy in other people for the person you are empathizing with. A way this works is as follows:
1. You connecting to person A
2. Person B seeing you as being worthy
3. Person B wanting to be like you
4. Person B connecting to A, like you
21-06-2018 12:52:44 PM: +91 78648 67727: Euche
Techniques > Use of language > Figures of speech > Euche
Description
Euche is the expression of emotion through prayer or mock-prayer.
Example
Heaven save us from such fools!
You have wronged her sorely, may God forgive you.
Lord
Discussion
When a person prays, it is a very personal thing and, in many contexts, an unchallengeable expression (to challenge prayer is to challenge religion).
Expressing emotion though prayer thus enables an emotion to be expressed in a way that forbids reaction.
Prayer forms can verge on blasphemy where they are take the form of outbursts or take in vain the name of a religious figure.
21-06-2018 12:53:36 PM: +91 78648 67727: Euphemism
Techniques > Use of language > Figures of speech > Euphemism
Description
Euphemism is the substitution of a 'harmless' word for one that might offend.
Example
I'm going to the loo.
I'm going to the john.
I'm going for a tinkle.
I'm going for a pee.
He showed me his thing. Scary.
They did 'it'.
Discussion
In polite society there are words that are forbidden, typically around body functions and sex though also covering religion and other areas where others
may be offended. Using such words can hence be embarrassing and risk censure.
Alternative words are therefore created to allow people to converse about the delicate topic without being admonished.
Taboos are a core part of many cultures and are coped with in many ways, including euphemism.
Euphemisms can take various forms, including:
Generalizations ('thing')
Indirection ('go to the bathroom')
Onomatopoeia ('tinkle')
Abbreviations, often child-like ('loo')
Mispronunciation ('darn')
Words with other meanings ('john')

Physical descriptive ('pinky')
Foreign words ('derriere')
Technical or scientific terms ('urinate')
Abbreviations ('SOB')
Softening ('he sounded stupid')
Trivializing ('quickie')
Euphemisms themselves may also become taboo and thus not allowed (eg. 'crap').
21-06-2018 12:54:23 PM: +91 78648 67727: Exemplum
Techniques > Use of language > Figures of speech > Exemplum
Description
Exemplum is the use of examples to support an argument.
Example
You should give me you full support, just like Simon here.
Many people have learned to do this. You can too.
Bugs Bunny eats carrots and I think they make him happy. Eat up!
How could we do it out here? The Greeks and Persians of old did not need great machines but used their ingenuity. All we need is our minds and the
resources around us.
Discussion
An important way that a person can be persuaded is through the use of evidence. Exemplum does this by quoting an example as proof of what is presented.
Examples can be specific, with the name of a person and a full story. You can even get the person involved to be there in person to tell what happened.
Examples can use props and other devices to enliven the presentation. Examples may also be brief and vague or even fictitious.
21-06-2018 12:55:17 PM: +91 78648 67727: Exergasia
Techniques > Use of language > Figures of speech > Exergasia
Description
Exergasia is restating a point in different words.
Example
We must return. We need to go home now as it is the end of the holidays.
I think they should take time to analyze the situation and discover the many variants that they may be discovered and so understand the possibilities and
choose the best way forward. In other words, they should explore all options.
Discussion
When we say something, we may not be sure that the other person has fully understood what we said, so we repeat ourselves. Using different words has
several benefits:
It helps the other person save face (they would be embarrassed if we insinuated they were unable to understand the first statement).
It avoids the embarrassment of us looking silly or insulting.
It gains the benefit of repetition, hammering home the point.
Restatements are often in the form of elaboration, adding new information. This supports the saving face and allows you to first give a headline to let the
other person get the big picture, then provide fill-in information.
Restatement may also be with a summary at the end, especially after a longer initial exposition. Another form is when jargon has been used, translating this
into 'plain English'.
21-06-2018 12:55:48 PM: +91 78648 67727: Extraposition
Techniques > Use of language > Figures of speech > Extraposition
Description
Extraposition is the moving of a word or phrase to the end of the sentence, away from its natural position.
Example
I gave it to the person who was sitting next to me, John Stone.
I was going to see my friend in London, sitting on the train.

Succeed in life, you can.
Discussion
A common reason why extraposition happens is that when we are speaking, we have to decide what to say in 'real time', which often leads to errors.
A typical example is where we want to name a person, but we forget their name when we should use it, but then remember it, so we use a vague reference
instead and then add the name to the end of the sentence.
Another example is where we think of something we want to say and so put it earlier in the sentence as we think of it (and so pushing other words to the
end).
As extraposition is commonly used and accepted, it may also be used for deliberate effect, for example by putting an important phrase or subtle command
at the end of the sentence where the recency effect will make it more memorable.
The rearrangement in extraposition also has the effect of making the other person think more about what is said in order to create full meaning. It is thus
also an attentional device.
21-06-2018 12:59:12 PM: +91 78648 67727: Fictio
Techniques > Use of language > Figures of speech > Fictio
Description
Fictio is the attribution of human traits and qualities to animals.
Example
"Who are you?" thought the dog, as he quizzically turned his head and wondered what to do next.
The lion looked around and smiled at his wives. He was the luckiest lion in the whole savannah, and he knew it.
"My poor sweet baboo!", cried the starlet, hugging her poodle. "Shall we go shopping for boo-kins? What would you like today? Another nice coat?"
Discussion
We live and think as humans. Naturally, of course because we are human. In living this way, it is impossible for us to know what it is to be an animal. It is
also even more impossible for animals to know what it is to be human.
In our need to understand the world around us and seeking to understand animals, particularly those with which we have some emotional connection, we
often find it helpful (although not accurate) to think of them thinking in the way that we think. In doing this, we can then use the mental mechanics that we
use for interacting with other humans, where 'theory of mind' involves a process in which we respond to how we think the other person is thinking.
Fables are teaching stories in which animals play the parts (the most famous of these are by Aesop). Putting animals in place of humans can make lessons
easier to accept.
Fictio is also commonly called Anthropomorphism.
21-06-2018 01:00:02 PM: +91 78648 67727: Hendiadys
Techniques > Use of language > Figures of speech > Hendiadys
Description
Hendiadys is the use of two words linked by a conjunction to express a single, more complex idea.
Example
The heat and sun of midday (vs. the hot midday sun.)
Sound and fury, signifying nothing (vs. furious sound, signifying nothing).
The man and the strength and the joy of it all. (vs. 'the joyful, strong man).
Come up and see me sometime (vs. Come up to see me).
Discussion
Hendiadys is a form of emphasis, created by using a word structure that is relatively unusual, thereby grabbing
attention. In effect, the conjunction both divides and joins, making two separate things as one.
A typical hendiadys is to replace a noun-adjective pair with two nouns joined by a conjunction. In effect, one thing is divided into two by the conjunction
and can be seen as a form of polysyndeton.
Hendiatris is the same as hendiadys but using three words to mean one thing. This allows you to also use the power of a
triple.
Hendiadys comes from the Greek phrase meaning 'one through two'.
It is sometimes known as 'two for one' or 'figure of twinnes'.
21-06-2018 01:01:16 PM: +91 78648 67727: Heterosis

Techniques > Use of language > Figures of speech > Heterosis
Description
Heterosis is a figure of speech where one form of verb is exchanged for another form.
Example
I know the game has not yet started, but I know we have won.
Well, I says to him, I says. 'What are you doing?' Then he looks at me and I think, 'Duh!'
I throwed the ball over the fence.
Discussion
A classic form of heterosis is where what happened in the past is described using the present tense. This is because the present tense is more immediate
and sustains greater attention.
Emotions are tense-specific, for example anger and sadness are often about the past, whilst fear and hope are about the future. By changing the temporal
nature of the verb, you can change associated emotion.
Children often use verbs incorrectly and hence express heterosis. Children and child-like positions are likewise illustrated in literature.
Heterosis is also used to describe other forms of change, such as gender and mood.
21-06-2018 01:01:38 PM: +91 78648 67727: Homophone
Techniques > Use of language > Figures of speech > Homophone
Description
Homophones are words that are spelled differently yet have the same (or very similar) pronunciation.
Example
His death, which happen'd in his berth,
At forty-odd befell:
They went and told the sexton,
and The sexton toll'd the bell.
(From 'Faithless Sally Brown', by Thomas Hood)
Discussion
The general principle of homophones is at the heart of many puns, where the confusion (or maybe not) leads to a review of what was heard until the wit is
realized.
The unexpectedness and confusion can be used in persuasion to distract and otherwise enable key messages to be slipped past the person's guard.
21-06-2018 01:02:32 PM: +91 78648 67727: Hypallage
Techniques > Use of language > Figures of speech > Hypallage
Description
Hypallage is the reversal of the syntactic relationship of two words.
Example
He danced the happy road home. (he is happy, not the road)
Male entrance. (the entrance does not have gender)
A careless remark left her crying in the dark. (the remark is not careless -- the person who said it was)
Discussion
It is surprising how jumbled you can make a sentence and the meaning still appear. Reversals and rearrangements like this cause us to pause to work out
the real meaning, although this is usually not difficult.
Hypallage often creates a metaphor, such as the 'happy road' that can add depth to the meaning, such as the implication that as the person is happy then
everything else, even the inanimate road, is infected by his or her happiness.
A common form of hypellage is the transferred epithet, where a modifier (typically an adjective) is applied to the 'wrong' word in the sentence. This is a
common mode in poetry and literature.
21-06-2018 01:02:58 PM: +91 78648 67727: Hyperbaton
Techniques > Use of language > Figures of speech > Hyperbaton

Description
Hyperbaton is the rearrangement of a sentence or phrase, moving an item to a place other than its correct syntactical position.
Example
I will you kiss.
Her hair let loose and sunny,
warmed the withering day.
On your set, get marks, go!
Discussion
Hyperbaton can be used for deliberate effect, rearranging a sentence to change the meaning or to gain attention. The trick is to sustain the meaning whilst
causing momentary
confusion whilst the audience works out what is being said.
Hyperbaton also allows for key words to be placed for maximum emphasis -- usually at the start or end of a sentence.
The Greek word 'hyperbaton' means 'transposition'.
21-06-2018 01:03:27 PM: +91 78648 67727: Hyperbole
Techniques > Use of language > Figures of speech > Hyperbole
Description
Extreme exaggeration, often with the intent of making a point or stimulating emotions.
Example
This box weighs a ton!
My love is as great as the greatest mountain. It is as deep as the deepest ocean. It reaches around the world and brings you to me.
That was so hilarious I laughed my head off. Oh, goodness it was incredibly, unbelievably funny. I still think my head is somewhere else. Maybe that is why I
won't be going back there again.
Discussion
The obvious exaggeration of hyperbole clearly tells the listener that something is going on, and that the exaggeration is not to be taken literally.
A common meaning is that the speaker has been surprised and that the hyperbole is being used to convey something of the emotion experienced.
The exaggeration of hyperbole often is intended to prove more extreme emotions in its targets. Hyperbole may thus be used as a prod to try to get people
to feel something where a more accurate description would be less likely to evoke the desired response. This form is often found in gossip and by amazed
children.
The exaggeration of hyperbole may have positive intent. It may also be used in irony, painting something large when you really mean it is small.
Hyperbole may also be used to push things to the limit, and is often used in conflict, such as when a person accuses another of 'never' doing what is wanted
and 'always' doing what is wrong.
21-06-2018 01:04:09 PM: +91 78648 67727: Hypocatastasis
Techniques > Use of language > Figures of speech > Hypocatastasis
Description
Hypocatastasis is a direct and implied comparison.
Example
Fool! Idiot!! Moron!!!
Discussion
In analogy, a comparison says 'like', in metaphor it says 'is'. In hypocatastasis there is no verb: the comparison is implied. This gives a sequence of
intensification:
Analogy: You are acting like a dog.
Metaphor: You are a dog.
Hypocatastasis: Dog!
Arguably, many words in themselves display hypocatastasis. The words 'cretin', 'imbecile' and so on have a medical history with separate clinical
descriptions of how each is less than normal. Thus doctors may historically have discussed whether a patient is a cretin or an imbecile.
Hypocatastatis is often delivered as an outburst where the verb that would make it an analogy or metaphor is omitted.
21-06-2018 01:04:47 PM: +91 78648 67727: Hypocorism

Techniques > Use of language > Figures of speech > Hypocorism
Description
Hypocorism is the use of baby-talk, pet names and diminutives.
Example
Oh, Sannie baby!
Ah, diddums. Does your ickle finger hurt?
Let's diddly do it, Dickey boy!
Discussion
Using baby talk is an invitation to temporarily regress to
child-state, where uninhibited ways of behaving are acceptable. It may also be used as an insult, suggesting the other person is a child. Giving a person a
child-like pet or diminutive name likewise makes them smaller (literally diminishing them).
The critical factor in such reduction is whether only the person is reduced to a child or whether the speaker also regresses to the child state. The former is
an act of domination, whilst the latter is an act of liberation and trust.
21-06-2018 01:05:23 PM: +91 78648 67727: Hypotaxis
Techniques > Use of language > Figures of speech > Hypotaxis
Description
Hypotaxis uses subordination of clauses to show relationships.
Example
I had a drink because I was thirsty.
When I go out, I feel happy.
If you have passed the test you can drive by yourself.
Discussion
In constructing complex sentences, Hypotaxis is a very common principle. With complexity, you make people think more about what you said. You can
make your words flow and give a smooth easiness to your sentences.
Relationships you can show include:
Cause-and-effect: A leads to B
Conditional: If A then B
Set-membership: A is a part of B
Hypotaxis is the 'opposite' of Parataxis.
21-06-2018 01:06:01 PM: +91 78648 67727: Hypozeuxis
Techniques > Use of language > Figures of speech > Hypozeuxis
Description
Hypozeuxis is the use of parallel clauses, each with a subject and predicate.
Example
I came, I saw, I conquered.
Michael rode, Susan sewed, the family thrived whilst others just survived.
The good man smiles as the bad man scowls and the indifferent man passed by.
Discussion
Zeugma is the sharing of a subject (noun) or predicate verb between clauses (eg. 'I came, saw and conquered'). Hypozeuxis is the opposite of this, as every
clause has its own separate subject-predicate (or noun-verb) pair.
Whilst much speech abbreviates, hypozeuxis is more precise, making it more difficult for the listener to be confused. At the same time, a pattern is often
created, especially if the clauses are of the same size, so drawing attention.
Hypozeuxis comes from the Greek 'hypozeug', meaning 'to put under the yoke'.
21-06-2018 01:06:34 PM: +91 78648 67727: Hysteron proteron

Techniques > Use of language > Figures of speech > Hysteron proteron
Description
Hysteron proteron is reversing of the temporal sequence in order to put of important ideas first.
Example
I conquered, I saw, I came.
We can win by fighting hard.
She brought me up well and gave birth to my life.
Putting on my shoes and socks.
Discussion
When things happen it time, it is often the latter events which are the most important, yet narrative is often given in the sequence of activities. Hysteron
proteron breaks this rule, putting the important things first.
By this deliberate reversal, hysteron proteron draws
attention to the important point, so giving it primacy.
Hysteron proteron is a form of Hyperbaton, which describes general rearrangements of the sentence.
21-06-2018 01:07:09 PM: +91 78648 67727: Illeism
Techniques > Use of language > Figures of speech > Illeism
Description
Illeism is referring to oneself in the third person.
Example
We are grateful for your gifts, good sir.
I am the king. He is displeased.
Discussion
Referring to yourself in the third person detaches yourself from that person. This can make the speaker seem objective. It can also be used to highlight an
exalted position position, letting the speaker put themselves on a pedestal (and figuratively stand below the pedestal in worship of him- or herself).
In this way, Illeism is sometimes talked about in common parlance as 'the royal we' as kings and queens use this. Queen Victoria famously said 'We are not
amused.' This also makes illeism a prerogative of royalty and usage by common people may thus be seen as bad form (Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher
was known to use it upon occasion). Mark Twain said "Only kings, presidents, editors, and people with tapeworms have the right to use the editorial 'we'."
21-06-2018 01:07:38 PM: +91 78648 67727: Inclusio
Techniques > Use of language > Figures of speech > Inclusio
Description
Inclusio is the bracketing of a passage of text with the same set of words at the start and end.
Example
Do not weep for me when I am gone. Weep for the lost people in the world. Weep for the hungry children. Weep for the homeless people. But do not weep
for me when I am gone.
We will prevail. Though they will throw all their great might at us. Though we will be hard pressed. We will prevail.
Discussion
This is a form of repetition that also makes use of primacy (words at the beginning tend to be remembered) and
recency (words at the end tend to remembered too). This makes it a powerful device for speech-makers and it can be seen in many classic political
speeches.
A visual form of this can be seen in adverts, where a product or key message is repeated early and late in the production.
21-06-2018 01:08:13 PM: +91 78648 67727: Innuendo
Techniques > Use of language > Figures of speech > Innuendo
Description
Innuendo is 'saying something without saying it', often implying something negative or politically incorrect, through allusion or insinuation.
Example
She's got a great future in front of her!
Is that a gun in your pocket or are you just pleased to see me?
Know what I mean? Nudge, nudge! Wink, wink!
Discussion
When you are prevented from saying something due to social norms, such as when certain words are forbidden or even from politeness, then it is common
to try and get others to understand by using metaphor of some kind.
If the person using innuendo does not get the response they require, it is not uncommon for them to increase their attempts, exaggerating the innuendo or
using further suggestion.
An advantage that innuendo gives the person using it is that it deniable, should they be called out for making improper suggestions.
Sexual innuendo is common, particularly in drama that written in times when explicit language could not be used. Used well, it can create a humorous
situation, for example by referencing sexually-related parts of the body.
Innuendo can also be produced without language, using gestures and substitute items such as melons.
Sexual innuendo is also used in flirting and may be unwelcome.
21-06-2018 01:09:04 PM: +91 78648 67727: Irony
Techniques > Use of language > Figures of speech > Irony
Description
Irony occurs when there is incongruity between what is said/done/meant/perceived.
Example
Ironically, my wife's name is the same as my mother's.
Well that's as delightfully clear as mud.
I caught the last train in time. Unfortunately it was going back to where I had started.
Discussion
Irony is a core component of a dry sense of humor, where wit is appreciated but is unlikely to raise a laugh.
Verbal irony is incongruence between what is said and what is meant. For example saying, 'Oh, that's a nice big hat' when you mean that the hat is too big.
Dramatic irony include incongruence between a character's deeds and surrounding events. It usually occurs when the audience can see an ironic situation
that the characters cannot, such as where Romeo kills himself because he believes Juliet to be dead (she is actually only drugged). Dramatic irony can be
tragic or humorous.
Situational irony occurs where there is incongruence between events such as where a boy gives up wooing a girl and leaves town just as she realizes that
she loves him.
Irony is similar to sarcasm, although sarcasm is directed at a person and is more of an attack, whilst irony is more of an amused observation.
21-06-2018 01:10:00 PM: +91 78648 67727: Litotes
Techniques > Use of language > Litotes
Method
If you want to affirm something as true in an understated, quiet way, you can do this by taking the opposite of what you want to say and then turning it
back into a positive by negating it.
Example
Oh well, that is not an unimportant thing.
That's not bad.
Discussion
Litotes is a fancy name for a common twist of the language where a person expresses an affirmative by negating its contrary. In effect, this is a double
negative.
When twists, such as this, are put into language, it often acts as a form of apologetic, expressing a certain amount of embarrassment at having to say this
thing.
Twists also make the listener think harder to work out what is really being said. This can be deliberate use of confusion or seeking to sustain attention.
The use of litotes can also give away the speaker's bias, as saying 'not bad' implies that you are thinking more about bad than good.
A synonym is meiosis (which is also used to describe cell-division, in which it is also spelled meioses).
21-06-2018 01:10:41 PM: +91 78648 67727: Malapropism
Techniques > Use of language > Figures of speech > Malapropism

Description
Malapropism is the use of an incorrect word that is similar in sound to the intended word (often with humorous effect).
Example
You did that on porpoise! (vs. purpose)
I am prostate with grief. (vs. prostrate)
What are you incinerating? (vs. insinuating)
With all that money, he must be quite effluent. (vs. affluent)
Discussion
Mrs. Malaprop is a character in Richard Brinsley Sheridan’s (1751-1816) play 'The Rivals'. She regularly makes mistakes in the use of words, often with the
intent of appearing clever but actually resulting in the opposite effect. A malapropism hence may be a longer or more uncommon word rather than
something that is relatively simple and common.
Malapropism can be seen as evidence of ignorance (which it may be), but deliberate error in speech can be used for specific effect. It is typically funny in
some way, and may be used to distract a listener whilst important other detail is slipped through.
A neural cause of Malapropism occurs where memory access is based on sound-alike and a mental error occurs when we try to recall the right word.
Another use in changing minds is to lull the other person into a false sense of security by appearing unintelligent so they drop their guard and perhaps igve
away important information or do not analyze your other words for persuasive content.
The word 'malaprop' actually comes from the French 'mal �propos', meaning ‘inappropriate’.
Malapropism is also known as Dogberryism (after Constable Dogberry in Shakespeare's Much Ado About Nothing) or
Acyrologia.
21-06-2018 01:11:11 PM: +91 78648 67727: Meiosis
Techniques > Use of language > Figures of speech > Meiosis
Description
Meiosis is an understatement, making less of something that it actually it.
Example
What they called a 'riot' was really high spirits, just people having fun.
Don't worry, I'm fine. It's only a scratch.
Discussion
Making something smaller reduces chance of people being distracted by it or focusing on it. If you want others to pay
attention to something then you may well want them not be distracted.
Meosis is also common in polite society, where it is considered rude to draw attention to one's own problems, which may hence be downplayed. In a
curious reversal, by downplaying something that others know is significant, you actually draw attention to it.
There are words that diminish, such as 'just', 'only', 'simply' and so on. Inserting these as modifiers makes what is said less important. Spotting them is a a
useful method for identifying meiosis.
Meiosis is the opposite of Auxesis.
'Meiosis' comes from the Greek word meaning 'to make smaller'.
21-06-2018 01:11:40 PM: +91 78648 67727: Merism
Techniques > Use of language > Figures of speech > Merism
Description
Merism is referencing something by listing its constituent parts or multiple descriptors.
Example
Flesh and bone (the body).
Search every nook and cranny (= look everywhere).
Sun, sea and sand (a holiday destination).
Discussion
Describing something by just naming it is can be quite bland. When you want to be brief, then a fuller description is also less than satisfactory. Merism fills
the gap, giving a very brief and possibly creative description.
By listing parts, the description is lengthened, thus drawing
attention to the subject. In particular, attention is drawn to the parts lists (which may or may not be important).
Common merisms are found in the English language where they are used as a form of Metaphor.
Merism is also often found in legal documents where multiple very similar words are used to ensure a subject is fully covered ('last will and testament').
21-06-2018 01:12:34 PM: +91 78648 67727: Metalepsis
Techniques > Use of language > Figures of speech > Metalepsis
Description
Metalepsis is the description of something through the use of a weakly-related item.
Example
Angels' feathers on the mountainside. (Angels have white feathers, snow is white, patches of snow are like feathers).
He forced a silence with a leaden hand. ('heavy handed' approach combined with 'lead is heavy').
Through mists of time the old train belched forth. (Old steam train creates 'mist').
Discussion
By making the meaning of something less clear, you cause
confusion and thus force the listener to pause and think about what you really mean. Metalepsis is thus an
attentional device.
Metalepsis may use various mechanisms to distance the target subject from the words used, including:
Chains of relationships.
Chains of cause and effect.
Linked figures of speech.
Strained or extended metaphor.
21-06-2018 01:13:06 PM: +91 78648 67727: Metaplasmus
Techniques > Use of language > Figures of speech > Metaplasmus
Description
Metaplasmus is the deliberate misspelling of a word.
Example
Elizabeth can be spelled as Liz, Eliza, Lizzie, Beth, Bet, etc.
Oh frigging heck!
I'm feeling hippy. I feel like wild six.
Discussion
Words can misspelled because the writer has literacy problem. They may also be deliberately misspelled for a reason, such as:
Creating a diminutive of a person's forename.
Euphemism, where forbidden words are hidden in misspelling.
Puns, where humor is created through the double-meaning of the original word and the misspelled word.
These are the four ways to misspell: addition, omission, substitution and rearrangement.
21-06-2018 01:13:44 PM: +91 78648 67727: Metathesis
Techniques > Use of language > Figures of speech > Metathesis
Description
Metathesis is the rearrangement of letters within a word.
Example
He frevently plied his ardour.
That is not revelant.

You're a carzy driver!
Discussion
Rearranging letters in words can be done for effect. There are also some words where this is commonly done in error.
Interestingly, you can rearrange all the letters in each word in a sentence and still make sense of it.
Ilngtretisney, yuo cna rarerargne lal teh ltetres ni ecah wrod ni a scenntee adn slitl mkae snese fo ti.
..although keeping the first and last letters of most words in place helps the process. Nevertheless it shows how metathesis is not that obfuscating.
21-06-2018 01:14:31 PM: +91 78648 67727: Metonymy
Techniques > Use of language > Figures of speech > Metonymy
Description
Metonymy is the use of one item's name to represent another item. In particular the representing item usually has a close association with the represented
item.
Example
Henry invaded France. (Henry represents Britain)
The pen is mightier than the sword. (Pen represents words. Sword represents military power).
I'll just Google it. (using Google instead of search).
Discussion
Metonymy is quite close to metaphor, but with a more specific use. Metonymy uses names, whilst metaphor can indicate any representation.
Metonymy substitutes the contained for
the container, the effect for the cause. The connection may sometimes be rather distance, as in metalepsis.
Metonymy can be used in a number of associations, for example:
Cause represents effect
Container represents the contained
A greater thing represents a smaller thing
An author represents the book
The sign represents the signified
A common use of metonymy is in synecdoche, where a part represents the whole, for example the monarch being described as 'the crown'.
Metonymy comes from the Greek 'metonymia' meaning 'a change of name'.
21-06-2018 01:15:01 PM: +91 78648 67727: Narratio
Techniques > Use of language > Figures of speech > Narratio
Description
Narratio is the presentation of essential facts.
Example
I was about 20 yards away. I saw the man hit the woman in the head once. She fell down, then he kicked her in the midriff twice and walked off.
You have asked me for this seven times before. I have said no each time. I do not agree and will not agree.
It has full ABS and traction control. With 170 bhp at your disposal, you are unlikely to need more power. The roadholding has been reported as excellent in
this article. And I have never had any customer come back with any complaints.
Discussion
Sometimes simple facts are the most persuasive way of speaking. They provide incontrovertible evidence and play to needs for certainty. They also present
the speaker as honest and trustworthy, such that the listener is less likely to question something which the speaker later asserts.
Factual approaches are particularly important in certain contexts, such as in law courts and scientific presentations. They are also useful in general
argument as they are difficult to deny or oppose.
21-06-2018 01:15:40 PM: +91 78648 67727: Nosism
Techniques > Use of language > Figures of speech > Nosism
Description
Nosism is referring to oneself in the plural.

Example
We are not amused. (Queen Victoria)
We will now retire to one's repose.
Discussion
Nosism
The most famous use of nosism is by the English monarch, where the 'royal we' is quite common. Because of this tradition, it is considered very bad form
for anyone else to use it as it seeks puts one on a par with the monarch. Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher was known on occasion to use the term and was
criticized in the press for doing so.
'Nosism' can also generally mean 'conceit', which is the underlying emotion in use of the 'royal we' by ordinary people.
Nosism is also used in editorials where the editor writes 'we' and implies the newspaper or magazine as a whole when it is actually just the editor's
viewpoint.
Nosism and Illeism are similar terms.
Nosism comes from the Latin 'nos' meaning 'we' (and which is the origin of the French 'nous').
21-06-2018 01:16:13 PM: +91 78648 67727: Oeonismos
Techniques > Use of language > Figures of speech > Oeonismos
Description
Oeonismos is the expression of emotion through wishing or hoping.
Example
Wouldn't it be lovely if we could all be together at Christmas.
I hope he leaves soon, otherwise I might just land one on him!
I wish he would leave me alone!
Discussion
Hope is a form of desire, and wishing is often the expression of hope by other means. It is often positive in form although it can also have negative aspects.
Wishing is relatively harmless, particularly in positive form, and is thus offers a way of expressing emotion in a socially acceptable way.
21-06-2018 01:16:51 PM: +91 78648 67727: Optatio
Techniques > Use of language > Figures of speech > Optatio
Description
Optatio is making an exclamation in the form of a wish.
Example
I wish you'd shut up! I need quiet to read.
O, begone! Wouldst thou not leave thy brother in peace?
Rain! We need rain! I pray for rain!
Discussion
An exclamation is often a mark of frustration, where our goals are not met and we are left wanting. It is but a small step to include in the exclamation either
a full statement of what is wanted or perhaps just a hint of the wish.
This form can be useful in making a request of others, as an exclamation is often accepted as only a semi-voluntary thing at best and therefore may be
forgiven.
21-06-2018 01:17:58 PM: +91 78648 67727: Oxymoron
Techniques > Use of language > Figures of speech > Oxymoron
Description
Oxymoron is where adjacent and connected words appear to form a contradiction.
Example
There was a deafening silence.
The cold fire of her stare nailed him to the wall.
Such foolish wisdom! Such wise folly! Where did I ever see such juxtaposition?
Discussion
Oxymorons are often surprising in that the contradiction illustrates some wisdom or unexpected truth. This may be done deliberately to put over a message
or create some other dramatic effect.
Oxymorons can also be used to create confusion, and so grab attention, distract the listener or give a moment of inattention in which persuasive words may
be added.
Sometimes fun is poked at legitimate terms by describing them as oxymorons, such as 'military intelligence' and 'government initiative'.
Oxymoron comes from the Greek oxys, meaning sharp, and
moros, meaning dull.
21-06-2018 01:18:30 PM: +91 78648 67727: Parachesis
Techniques > Use of language > Figures of speech > Parachesis
Description
Parachesis is the repetition of a similar sound across multiple words.
Example
The man began to understand.
It was roughly the stuff of a simple kerfuffle.
I see the sky and cannot deny.
Discussion
Parachesis is a general term for repetition of sounds across words and so includes other forms of sonic repetition such as
alliteration, consonance and assonance. Parchesis is, however, looser than other methods and can be used in more generalized ways.
As with other similar forms, parachesis invokes the principle of repetition and so may be used for such purpose as gaining
attention, creating focus and building emphasis.
21-06-2018 01:19:26 PM: +91 78648 67727: Paradox
Techniques > Use of language > Figures of speech > Paradox
Description
A paradox is a statement (or set of statements) where a seemingly impossible contradiction is presented.
Example
I always lie. (If the person is a liar, then this is true, which makes them not a liar).
Death shall be no more; Death, thou shalt die. (how can death die?)
Youth is wasted on the young. (but how can young people know the value of youth without not having it?)
Discussion
On being presented a paradox, most people pause and try to work out what it means. In this way it uses the principle of
confusion to distract them and so gives opportunity for persuasion.
Paradoxes may be self-referential, contradictory and circular. They may also use half-truths or falsehood, although the listener may be initially distracted
from this fallacy by the confusion of the paradox.
Paradoxes can be used as explanations, such as the circular paradox known as the 'grandfather paradox' which is used to discount the possibility of time
travel. In this conundrum, a person travels back in time and kills their grandfather before he has children, so preventing the person being born (and also
from killing the grandfather).
Paradoxes can appear to be false but actually be true, such as a person having their fifth birthday after living twenty years (if they are born on February
29th in a leap year).
Paradoxes may be deliberate puzzles and are common in philosophy, where pedants spend time musing upon their construction and how feasible solutions
may be derived. Poets likewise delight in the twists of a paradox and seek to place them in matching linguistic settings. Authors also use paradoxes to
create excitement, confusion and enlightening lessons.
An antinomy is a false paradox that is arrived at by using accepted forms of reasoning. A dialetheia is a paradox that is both true and false at the same time,
such as when you say 'I am both in the room and outside the room', whilst you are standing in the doorway.
A moral paradox occurs where values conflict, for example where a person is faced with the choice of killing another person or letting a loved one die.
21-06-2018 01:19:56 PM: +91 78648 67727: Parallelism
Techniques > Use of language > Figures of speech > Parallelism

Description
Parallelism is the use of repeated patterns in separate parts of a sentence.
Example
The good that I hear does not match the bad that I see.
He loves to live; I live to love.
I know you lie, I accuse you of lying, I will show you are a liar.
Discussion
Repetition of a pattern creates emphasis, multiplying attention to each part referenced and thus the power of sentence.
Pattern repetition can be simple and obvious, making them easy to see. Patterns can also be subtle and overt, making them difficult to perceive.
Various forms of parallelism include:
Parallel subjects: The silent canal and the peaceful towpath led us on.
Parallel objects: I will search every city, town and village until I find you.
Parallel verbs and objects: Turn out the lights of life, draw the curtains of time, close the door on existence.
Parallel verbs and adverbs: He was publicly kind and privately mean.
Parallel phrases: Look to the mountains where you can see the peaks.
Parallel sentences: Lift me up! Help me ascend!
21-06-2018 01:22:09 PM: +91 78648 67727: Paraprosdokian
Techniques > Use of language > Figures of speech > Paraprosdokian
Description
Paraprosdokian is the use of words at the end of a phrase or sentence that change the apparent initial meaning.
Example
I am most disgusted that you were not rewarded for your wonderful work.
Take my hand, I don't want it.
Time flies like an arrow; fruit flies like a banana.
Discussion
When we listen to what someone is saying, we constantly
predict ahead, trying to work out what they are going to say. It is thus relatively easy to set up expectation and then dash it. This causes confusion and
hence makes the person review and re-think what you are really saying.
The confusion and subsequent realization of Paraprosdokian makes it a popular formula with comics and other humorists.
Paraprosdokian comes from the Greek words for 'beyond' and 'expectation'.
21-06-2018 01:22:46 PM: +91 78648 67727: Parataxis
Techniques > Use of language > Figures of speech > Parataxis
Description
Parataxis is the use of multiple independent clauses, with or without conjunctions.
Example
We went to the park and we sat down and we had a cup of tea.
In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth. And the earth was without form and void; and darkness was upon the face of the deep.
I came, I saw, I conquered.
Discussion
An independent clause stands alone, with an individual meaning. After a complete 'chunk' of meaning, we often pause for a moment to integrate it into
prior understanding. Clauses are generally shorter than sentences. Therefore multiple independent clauses have a staccato effect, giving more punch and
(perforce) having less flow.
Conjunctions connect clauses together into sentences and help create flow, yet if the clause is complete, the conjunction has less effect and may be
omitted. Parataxis occurs with or without the conjunction.
Parataxis is the 'opposite' of Hypotaxis.

21-06-2018 01:23:27 PM: +91 78648 67727: Paregmenon
Techniques > Use of language > Figures of speech > Paregmenon
Description
Paregmenon is the repetition of words which have the same root.
Example
Verily, you are very well verified.
Happily, happiness makes others happy too.
Society is the socialisation of the unsociable.
Discussion
Repetition is a simple way of grabbing attention, much as a hammer hitting a nail. This can be make more subtle in many ways and paragmenon is one way
of doing this.
Classification: Repetition
21-06-2018 01:24:35 PM: +91 78648 67727: Parisology
Techniques > Use of language > Figures of speech > Parisology
Description
Parisology is the use of equivocal or ambiguous language.
Example
Happy men and women walked in the park (are the women happy?)
The results of the experiment have value, I think. (What value? How much value? To who?)
It can be done. (What? By who?)
Discussion
Ambiguity is often caused by incomplete language. It would be hard work to explain in detail everything we mean, and so our speech gets severely
attenuated. We assume others will 'get what we mean', although this is often far from true.
As we face ambiguity all the time and seek certainty, we tend to make assumptions to 'fill in the gaps'. Vagueness may be used in a persuasive context
where resolution of uncertainty by the subject is predictable and their assumptions desirable.
Parisology also allows you to imply and insinuate things without getting into trouble, as you can always deny your intent and possibly accuse the other
person of unfair attack.
Parisology comes from the Greek 'parisos' meaning 'almost equal' or 'balanced', and 'logos', meaning 'word'.
21-06-2018 01:24:57 PM: +91 78648 67727: Parison
Techniques > Use of language > Figures of speech > Parison
Description
Parison is corresponding structure in a series of clauses.
Example
I have lived and loved across a long life
And I still live for love and long for more life.
He that has saved will be safe.
He that has failed will be a failure.
He that has loved will be loved.
Discussion
Parison can be found across sentences and clauses, where the same word may be found in different forms or nouns, adjectives, verbs and so on may match
one another.
Parison creates patterns that stimulate recognition of these and hence attention and, hopefully in certain poetry or prose, some measure of delight.
21-06-2018 01:26:05 PM: +91 78648 67727: Parisosis
Techniques > Use of language > Figures of speech > Parisosis

Description
Parisosis is where two or more clauses have the same number of syllables.
Example
I came, I saw, I won.
My cup runneth over, but never tomorrow.
Elephants and mice; they're terribly nice.
Discussion
Many patterning methods that use repetition do it by sound, such as consonance or parachesis. This stands out and it is easy to detect, which is not always
what you want.
A more subtle way of using patterns is to repeat the number of syllables. This is popular with poets and those who want to create unnoticed influence. It
can give a 'feeling' of harmony without conscious knowing of how this happened.

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ALISHA WORLD OF ENGLISH TIMELINE

A Great Place to Study English Language & Literature

1. John ran down the road.

2. Jane hurried to work.

1a. John hurried down the road.

2a. Jane ran to work.

having the same meaning, the words have replaceable meaning.

Acolutha is the opposite of Anacoloutha, which is the substitution of non-reciprocal words.

Feigned or pretended refusal of something which is actually desired.

How kind, but you need it more than me.

No, I don't want it now!

A: 'Here, have one.'

A: 'Go on, it's ok.'

B: 'Well, if you insist...thank you.'

The bringing together of a number of points into a powerful conclusion or climax.

Accumulatio is also known as Congeries and Accumulation.

Acutezza is the use of wit or wordplay.

She would! Two short planks, perhaps?

You say you have evidence, but evidently you do not.

Acutezza is Italian for sharpness or acuity.

Blind am I to your face,

Beauty gone to God's disgrace.

Nothing there but light and fire,

Obscuring all but my desire.

'That play was rubbish!'

'Indeed, sir. When I think of the play, I shall think of you.'

I go with your heart.

The multiple meanings possible also makes it popular with poets….

Sings the bird as we walk on by.

Asteismos is expression of emotion, often negative emotion, in a polite way.

You have insulted my wife and I hereby challenge you to a duel.

Your most obedient servant,

You know that does make me rather annoyed.

Adynaton is a declaration of impossibility, often in an obviously exaggerated comparison.

You've got as much chance with her as I have of becoming president.

Acting as if a point has already been questioned, challenged or disputed.

This is the right way. There is no alternative.

1. A feeling of deep indignation leads to an exclaimed outburst.

You stupid, foolish, idiotic, daft little boy!

When he wore a dress she looks delightfully female.

I could be dancing yesterday, under the hot, dark moon,

Living her down, strutting to their tune.

Every dog has their day.

Allusion is an indirect reference to something.

She's a very good friend of his...

What are you looking at?

Use of a sequence of words in which the initial letter is the same.

The words can be next to one another or spaced out.

Health, happiness and hope for the New Year!

I want this, wish for this and wonder if it can be done.

Bye-bye baby, baby bye-bye.

Alliteration is also called Homoeoprophoron, Adnomination, Agnomination and Annomination.

Medical services here. You won't get better.

Wanted: chair for a person with a wooden leg.

Anabasis is stepwise increasing of sense or emphasis in each phrase or sentence.

We must respond. We must fight! We must overcome this evil enemy!!

Are you there? I can hear you! There -- I see you!!

Good, better, best!

Anabasis is the opposite of Catabasis, which is a stepwise decreasing of emphasis.

Anabasis is Greek for 'Ascent' or 'going up'.

Do you not think we can do this now?

Anacoenosis comes from the Greek, 'Nakoinoun', meaning 'to communicate.'

1: She opened her thoughts to him.